No ... just for a short time. This child just turned one but he sat placidly on the altar. Obviously, this practice is not used with older children or adults.
I neglected to mention that the service concludes with a procession, 3X around the church. The mother led the procession carrying an icon of the Blessed Mother, the father held his son, the priest, godparents and participants followed carrying lighted candles while a beautiful hymn is sung.
Thanks for the clarification, and it sounds absolutely lovely.