Your Child's Naming / Welcoming Ceremony
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ABOUT
Naming and welcoming Ceremonies have been part of family and community life for centuries. A naming ceremony is used by families to welcome a new child into his or her circle of family & friends, the wider community and can be especially important for adopted children and blended families. Naming a child not only gives a sense of personal identity, even if they may not be aware of it at the time, but it also gives a sense of family and cultural identity, all of which are important to a child's sense of belonging. |
A naming ceremony is an opportunity to affirm the role of parents and also the chosen godparents, guardians, mentors of the child, who are expected to undertake a special and lifelong interest in the child's welfare and to support the parents in raising their child. A naming ceremony can be celebrated at a time that suits you. Your child may be few months old, 1st birthday, or a few years old. A naming ceremony can be celebrated at any venue of your choosing. |
PLANNING & CREATING YOUR NAMING CEREMONY
There are "no rules" when it comes to creating a naming ceremony. It can be anything that you wish. It may involve one or many people- simple or have many elements. It really is up to you. You may wish to include stories, poetry, readings, song, dance, symbolic rituals, family customs and generally there is also food preparation and sharing afterwards. You can arrange it all yourself. There is a book that I would recommend to you. It's called "How to create an Inspiring Naming Ceremony" by Wendy Haynes available from www.wendyhaynes.com or You may wish to engage a celebrant who will support you to plan, create and officiate on this very special occasion. The important thing is to start early! I would be most happy to work with you. Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions. |
