Chrismation
Congratulations on your upcoming Chrismation. Along with the excitement and joy that goes with having the sacrament of Chrismation, many questions arise as to what is required for chrismation preparation. Listed below are all the steps, with pertinent information, which must be carefully reviewed and completed in preparation for your Orthodox Chrismation.
The Clergy and Cathedral staff are here to welcome you and provide everything you will need to celebrate your Chrismation in the Church.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Cathedral Office at any time.
Please read everything carefully as all items must be completed no later than one month before the Chrismation.
Member in Spiritual and Financial Good Standing
Being in good standing with the Church is made up of two parts: Spiritual and Financial. By the very nature of baptism, one becomes a member in spiritual good standing with the Church. This can change over time as a person must continue to attend services and receive sacraments often. Following Chrismation, a person should become financially in good standing by clicking the stewardship button below. It is also true that over time a person must contribute on a regular basis their time, talent and treasure to remain in good standing. These two parts - spiritual and financial - go hand in hand and move us closer to Christ and His holy Church.
THE ORTHODOX Godparent (KOUMBARO/KOUMBARA)
The Godparent(s) must be a least 12 years of age and of the Orthodox faith.
The Godparent(s) is (are) covered under family stewardship until the age of 21 at which time he or she is expected to assume his or her individual financial obligation.
Members of the Cathedral must have a current-year stewardship pledge and donations towards the amount pledged.
If the Godparent(s) is (are) married, he or she is covered under the spouse's stewardship.
If the Godparent(s) is (are) married, his or her marriage must have been blessed in the Orthodox Church.
If the Godparent(s) is (are) divorced, he or she must have an Ecclesiastical divorce. Click HERE for more details.
If the Godparent(s) is (are) a member of another parish, he or she must furnish a letter from their parish Priest confirming their spiritual and financial good standing and their eligibility to be a sponsor.
Non-Orthodox may not be the official Godparent(s) but may serve as a witness.
STEPS TO COMPLETE beFORe Chrismation may tAKE PLACE
Step 1: Filling out the Request for Sacrament Form
This form is essential in preparing for your chrismation along with requesting a date.
Step 2: Godparent Seminar
This seminar will focus on the role that Godparents play in the life of the newly Chrismated and how they assist in their spiritual upbringing.
Step 3: Cathedral Chrismation Information
The information from this form is used to create the Chrismation certificate that comes from the Metropolis of Atlanta along with the official records of the Chrismation that remain part of the Cathedral archives.
General Chrismation Information
ITEMS YOU WILL NEED: Please discuss with the Godparent(s):
Gold or Silver cross
Decorated white candle for the person being Chrismated and for each Godparent
Chrismation will take place right before the Recitation of the Creed in the Divine Liturgy. Please be on the Solea before this point.
Please remind the Godparent(s) that they will need to sign the Chrismation Certificate. The Clergy will give you the original to take home.
If you are looking for an explanation of the service, here is a brief example.
Step 4: Coming to Church and Receiving Sacraments:
For three (3) consecutive Sundays following the Chrismation, the Godparent(s) should accompany you to church so that you may all receive Holy Communion. You should also attend church, receive Holy Communion regularly, and participate in the ministries of the church in the grace of Christ and with the richness of Orthodoxy.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact the Cathedral Office at any time.
May God's blessing be upon you as you plan for your Chrismation! Congratulations!