Emily Post (1873-1960) was the doyen of etiquette advisers and in 1922 wrote advice on etiquette for Christenings or Baptisms. Some of the advice holds true today, but changes in methods of communications and modern lifestyles, make some of the advice seem terribly dated. I wonder what Mrs. Post would have thought about how we conduct ourselves today?
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Here is some of the advice she gave for Christenings over 80-years ago:
"Invitations to a christening are never formal, because none but the family and a very few intimate friends are supposed to be asked. In this day invitations are nearly all sent over the telephone, except to those who are at a distance, or else friends are asked verbally when seen; but it is both correct and polite to write notes."
This is the form of the invitation:
"Dear Mrs. (name):
The baby is to be christened here at home, next Sunday at half past four, and we hope you and Mr. (name) and the children if they care to - will come.
Affectionately,
(your name)"
All very stiff and formal, but it appears that telephone invitations would be communicated by a servant:
"Mr. and Mrs. Gilding, Jr. would like Mr. jackpot slot terbesar and Mrs. Norman to come to the baby's christening on Sunday at half past four, at their house."
Whereas, today it would all be first name terms, attendance at a church and communicated by email, mobile/cell phone.
On the subject of Godparents,
