Christian name

From Free net encyclopedia

Christian name is more or less synonymous with forename or given name. It can be seen as an archaism due to the increasing secularisation of what were once compulsorily Christian societies, but it continues to be very widely used in the United Kingdom, and not just by practising Christians. It is almost never used in the United States.

Converts to Christianity may adopt a new Christian name upon baptism.

"A name is given, which should be taken from some person, whose eminent sanctity has given him a place in the catalogue of Saints. This similarity of name will stimulate to the imitation of his virtues and the attainment of his holiness." - Catechism of Trent

[edit]