The Orthodox baptism cross is the first thing a person receives in the Church. The priest places it on the newly baptised straight after the immersion, and from then on the cross is worn for life. Only its size and its chain change over the years.

Because the moment is so clear, the questions come early. Who is supposed to buy the cross? What kind suits a baby? Does it need to be blessed first? This guide answers them. For general advice on metal, shape and care for any pectoral cross, see our page on how to choose a pectoral cross.

Who buys the baptism cross

There is no canon on this, only custom, and custom is fairly consistent across Orthodox countries: the godparent buys the cross.

In Slavic parishes it is usually the godfather, who also brings the cord or chain, while the godmother looks after the white sheet and the christening gown. In many Greek families a single godparent provides nearly everything for the service, including the cross, the white clothes, the large candle and the oil.

In practice:

  • if the child has one godparent, that godparent buys the cross, whether it is a boy or a girl;
  • if there are two, the godfather usually takes it on;
  • parents may buy it themselves when the godparents live far away;
  • an adult convert often chooses their own cross or receives it from their sponsor.

What matters is that someone has agreed to bring it. A quick message to the godparents a few weeks ahead prevents both an empty-handed morning and two crosses for one child. Our guide to Orthodox baptism gifts covers the rest of who gives what.

Orthodox baptismal cross rules

People search for "rules", but the requirements are few:

  1. It must be a Christian cross. Eight-pointed, four-pointed, with or without the figure of Christ: all are acceptable. A piece of jewellery that only resembles a cross, or carries symbols of another faith, will not be used. The difference between a plain cross and a crucifix is explained in cross or crucifix.
  2. It must be blessed. A cross from a church shop usually already is. One bought elsewhere should be given to the priest before the service so he can bless it.
  3. It is brought to the church and handed to the priest before the baptism begins. If the parish does things differently, you will hear about it at the preparatory talk.
  4. It is worn, not displayed. A baptismal cross goes under the clothes, against the skin, and is kept on.

Choosing an Orthodox baptismal cross for a baby

A baby wears the cross day and night, so comfort and safety come before appearance. Look for:

  • a small, light cross, so it does not weigh on the chest;
  • smooth, rounded edges with no stones or sharp details that could scratch the skin or catch on clothing;
  • a solid loop for the cord, closed all the way round, so the cross cannot slip off;
  • sterling silver 925, which is strong enough for constant wear and the usual choice for an Orthodox baptism cross in silver.

A baptism cross for a baby girl and one for a boy differ only in taste. Girls are often given something a little finer, with a delicate pattern; boys something plainer. Both are equally Orthodox.

Resist buying a larger cross "to grow into". It will be uncomfortable for years. When the child is older, they can choose a new cross that fits.

Cord or chain: wearing a baptism cross necklace

For a baby a soft cord is the usual choice. It is light, does not rub the neck and stays out of the way. A chain can come later, when the child is old enough to take care of it.

Adjust the length so the cross lies on the chest without hanging low or pressing on the throat, and test the knot or clasp at home, not in church. Our cords and chains are in a separate section.

Parents often ask whether a baby should sleep in the cross. Many Orthodox families keep it on, but a baby's safety comes first. If you are worried about the cord at night, take the cross off at bedtime and leave it beside the cot or by the icons. Your parish priest will tell you the same.

Is our baptism cross already blessed?

Yes. Every item card in our shop states where the item was consecrated, and all our silver crosses, pendants and rings are consecrated on particles of the relics of St George the Victorious. Such a cross does not need a second blessing, though if your priest wishes to sprinkle it with holy water before the service, that is perfectly normal.

After the baptism

The baptismal cross is usually worn for years. When the child outgrows it, a larger cross takes its place, and the first one is kept at home, often in the icon corner, as a reminder of the day. It is never thrown away or turned into a piece of jewellery.

If a cross is lost, simply buy a new one, have it blessed if it is not already, and put it on. Silver darkens with time; that is a property of the metal. Clean a child's cross with a soft cloth and nothing abrasive.

Ordering a baptism cross

Our sterling silver crosses are in the Orthodox crosses section; for a baby, choose one of the smaller and lighter designs. If you need a different size or an inscription, our workshop makes silver cross pendants to order. Other gifts for the day are in the baptism gifts section.

We ship from Tallinn by registered post with a tracking number within 1-3 working days of payment. Order a little ahead so the cross arrives in good time for the baptism.