Christenings

[Pickles73]

Even if a childs parents are separated, in order for a christening to go ahead is the agreement of both parents needed?
What happens if one parent objects/disagrees with their child being christened?

[Schutzengel]

There have been occasions reported in the press, where one parent has taken a child to be Christened, without the knowledge of the other separated parent, and there has been a terrific row about it later. So it would appear that there need only be one parent present. Although, I think it would be much better, if the parents are in reasonably amicable contact, to make a decision between them. However if different religions are involved, this good make matters a bit more complicated.

[terambulan]

Just the official guardian responsible for the child gives the consent required but all at the discretion of the vicar/priest.

[Pickles73]

An official guardian, I presume, is the person who has sole custody of the child??!! But if it is a case of parental responsibility (ie; there is no custody order) and that is joint then surely, if it is known that the absent parent is against a christening then the latter should be able to have a say in the matter ??

[Beanmistriss]

I don't know about legally but morally you'd think that both parents should have a say. If it was something that was so important to one that it happened and one that it didn't did they not discuss it when still together?

[Pickles73]

To those who have tried to help - thank you. The matter has now been sorted and there is now going to be a thanksgiving instead as a compromise.
The matter was not able to be discussed because the mother is young and as far as she is concerned if she wants something she will get it - unfortunately for her the church were not willing to do a christening without the consent of both parents, separated or not. It has been interesting to note though that when she went to book the christening she lied to the person who deals with it saying that the dad did agree.