A Greek baptism in the Christian Orthodox Church is a major event in the life of any family. Here at Little Doves we are aware that the Greek Culture is filled with a variety of traditions. Although, every region in Greece has its own traditions that uniquely set it apart from the rest of the country, the baby's baptism must always include certain necessary items to enable the baptism to take place.  Working with some wonderful Greek friends Little Doves is pleased to announce the introduction of the Orthodox Collection ready for 2009.

For the sacrament of Baptism, it is the normal custom for one of the godparents to bring the items needed for baptism to church. Most important are The Lathopana Sets which include:

• 1 large white or ivory  Baptismal Towel
  -  to wrap around the baby
• 1 small white or ivory Towel
  - for use by the priest and godparent
• 1 large white or ivory oil sheet
  - to be used with the towel
• 1 set of baptismal undergarments
  - to dress the infant immediately after the immersion in Baptism. In Orthodoxy, these garments are considered sacred and must be kept safely.

Also needed during the baptism are:

• 1 small bottle of olive oil -for the priest to pour into the baptismal water
• 1 bar of soap - for use by the priest and godparent to wash their hands
• 3 white candles i large candle and 2 smaller matching ones
• A baptismal outfit, shoes and socks
• Martirika-Christening Witness Pins - to pin on godparents and guests
  
• A gold cross on a chain -for the baby to wear after Chrismation
• A baptismal box -store all of the items inside and carry them to the Church.

Over the comings weeks all these items will be for sale by Little Doves.  In the meantime please feel free to contact us for further details.

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  Little Doves offers an exclusive range of hand embroidered Lathopana. Each set consists of one large Towel, one Oil sheet and one hand Towel.

  The towels are made from a soft 100% pure cotton fabric and decorated with silk bands and sumptuous
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  Little Doves offers an exclusive range of hand embroidered Lathopana. Each set consists of one large Towel, one Oil sheet and one
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  A beautiful 100% pure cotton towel with silk bands and sumptuous lace trimming.  This towel is wonderfully soft and warm and perfect to
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  A beautiful 100% pure cotton towel with silk bands and sumptuous lace trimming.  This towel is wonderfully soft and warm and perfect to
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  A beautiful 100% pure cotton towel edged with silk and cotton lace.  This towel is a lovely gift for any godmother and ideal for use during
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  100% pure white, cotton lawn oil sheet with lace edgings and ribbon trimming.  The initials of the baby will be embroidered in the corner.