Christian names

[SheenaPaden]

I am researching the Padden family from Innismagrath parish.   However I have found the Christian names confusing.   Does anyone know why christian names change?   

For example I have bmd information for the wife of Owen Padden who came to Scotland in 1854.   On any bmd or census info he is known as Owen or John - his wife's name is Elizabeth, then Betsy, then Bridget or Biddy.

On the death certificates for Owen and his brother Thomas  they give their parents names as Anthony and Barbara.   Yet on a baptism record for Innismagrath parish for the correct year for Owen - his parents are given as Darby and Nancy.

Is it possible that people in the area used different christian names or should I discount this baptism record as wrong and look elsewhere?



Also when tracing Owen's baptism record I have his parents as Darby and Nancy.