It used to be the case that you met, got married after a suitable timeframe, and started a family. The chances are you would have got married in Church or another religious building, and the expectation would be that you christened your children in the same place …. in fact Brides often kept their wedding dress to be sewn into a baby’s gown for their christening.
Now, with the majority of people seeing themselves as ‘not religious’, and the norm often being that the parents aren’t married, traditional christenings have fallen by the wayside.
So why are Naming Ceremonies rising in popularity?
The reasons we ‘name’ a child in the company of friends and family are the same reasons we used to have christenings, it’s just the setting and context that has changed. The event brings together those who are invested in the child’s future, will actively protect and nurture them, and will act as a support to the parents, both practically and emotionally.
Holding a a naming ceremony is the chance to publicly declare your love for your child, and to bring together those who will support you in this.
Modern naming ceremonies can be held anywhere, including hotels, gardens, or even your home. Usually they involve some form of symbolism such as ‘wishing trees’, sand blending, or candle lighting.
A Celebrant-led ceremony will also reflect the personalities of the parents and be unique and personal, creating a day that is special to all. You might invite friends to write personal ‘welcome to the world’ tributes, introduce music that binds you as a family, or read favourite poems that you hope will become special. You can even formalise the ceremony with a signed declaration that outlines your hopes and promises to the child.
Above all, it’s a chance for family and friends to celebrate the new life with you ….. and what an excuse for a party!
