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Initiation ritual/infant baptism
Essential Practice Point 5
- In the Lutheran Church the Sacrament of Baptism, initiation into the religion, takes place in infancy where the child’s parents and Godparents pledge vows on behalf of the child. Receiving baptism before death is often considered important. As a result it can be important that a newborn child born to Lutheran parents is baptised if in danger of death.
- A midwife or other healthcare practitioner may be asked to baptise a baby if no religious representative is available. This ritual can be performed by any Christian, and it is done by making the sign of the Cross on the child’s forehead, pouring a little water on the forehead and saying the words “(child’s name), I baptise you in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen”. Many parents will derive great comfort from knowing that their child has been baptised.
(Return to Summary of Essential Practice Points)
Foetal, infant and child death
- There are no specific religious requirements governing many areas of foetal, infant and child death. The Lutheran pastor or Church of Ireland chaplain can offer particular ceremonies based on the needs and wishes of the parents, which are of paramount importance in these sensitive situations.
- In the case of a stillbirth a Blessing can be offered. These ceremonies can also be performed in the case of miscarriage, based on a request from parents.
- A funeral service will be offered for all cases of foetal, infant and child death. The nature of the service is based upon the wishes and needs of the bereaved. A religious representative will be a contact person and a resource in these matters.
- Parents will value the knowledge that the remains are treated with respect.
Memento of a deceased child
There is no objection to offering a memento of a deceased child to the parents, be it a footprint, handprint, lock of hair, etc.
