Naming Ceremonies
It takes a community to raise a child
There is a long tradition around the world of birth rites and welcoming children into their larger communities. These ceremonies provide opportunity to:
- Offer good fortune in the form of wishes and gifts
- Explain the meaning and rationale behind a chosen name
- Pledge promises in our roles as parents, god parents, siblings, family and friends
- Acknowledge changes in family dynamics and reassert our values and the way we wish to live
- Celebrate the next generation as a whole
A naming is a beautiful ceremony without affiliation to a particular religious observance. For interfaith families, rituals and prayers from different religions can be offered on a neutral ground celebrating the cultural heritage of a child from both sides of the family. Many chose to read significant poems and messages, release butterflies, light a candle or plant a tree. Though a naming traditionally happens in the first year of life, they can be performed at any time; such as when a child reaches a significant age, or when all the members of a family come together as a whole to share a special day.
For more information contact Nicola Sinclair
