How soon after birth was a Catholic child baptized?

1stackgen4

German christening records don't seem to state the date of birth. In the 1600s-1850s, were the Catholic babies baptized the same day as they were in other countries or was there a greater delay? Or did it depend on where they lived such as in cities as opposed to rural areas?

Also, was this consistent over centuries or did it vary from time frame to time frame? Since there were a great many wars, large and small, as well as border disputes during those years, how did those wars or local battles affect these customs?

Thanks,

Elizabeth

Robert Seal_1

Date of birth wasn't important to either Catholic or Protestant churches per se; it was the baptismal date that was important because this was a fundamental religious rite. Hence many early parish records only include the child's baptismal date.

Generally in the Catholic Church and to a large extent the Protestant Church children were baptized within a day or two of birth, and yes frequently on the same day of birth. But there is no precise pattern and you cannot calculate an exact birth date based on the baptismal date alone.

It's best to record the baptismal date and leave it at that.

Michael J Martin 806

My great great grandmother was baptised a few hours after her birth. She was Catholic from the town of Schwenningen.

1stackgen4

Thanks for responding.

1stackgen4

Thank you, Robert. You are always such a great help. It is as I figured, but wanted to be sure.

Robert Seal_1

You're welcome, Elizabeth.