Naming Ceremonies

What is the difference between a naming ceremony and a christening?

Can't I just have a christening instead?

I don't believe in god or anything. Isn't a naming ceremony the same as a christening?

I've just adopted my child and a christening doesn't quite feel the right thing.

I don't know anything about naming ceremonies. I don't know where to begin, I don't want my child to be christened either, but I know it will be expected.

These and many other questions and thoughts could be going around your head. Hopefully by having a read of this blog it will answer some questions and help you decide what you would like for your child.

The best way to describe the difference between a naming ceremony and a christening is as follows, A christening is about the relationship the child has with the church, were as a naming ceremony is about the relationship the child has with those at the naming ceremony, "their community".

A naming ceremony can include little to no religious elements. If there is a grandparent that you want to keep happy something can be included to mention a faith and religion. You don't need to have a belief in any faith or religion for a naming ceremony.

What happens at a naming ceremony? Well, it is an opportunity for you to officially introduce your little person, to friends, family and extended family if they are there, and for you as parents to make the promises you want to your child. You may want to include the story about how you found out your little one was on their way, or the reason behind the name that has been chosen for them, you may also want supporting adults (traditionally known as god parents) to make promises, or grandparents to make promises. These can be promises you choose yourself, or ones they come up with their selves.

A naming ceremony has the flexibility for you to have said what you want, there are no set words that need to be followed, and no time limit. You may like to include music at the start or end, such as nursery rhymes. Or a poem, one you like or I can find a selection for you to pick. It can include your hopes and dreams for the future both for your child and as a family. Or maybe you would like to include something that has a symbolism and meaning for you.

It doesn't just have to be babies, that have a naming ceremony, and it doesn't have to be a naming ceremony! It could be a welcoming ceremony, this could be something that you do if you have adopted a child, and may want to welcome them into your support group of people. Or you may have become a blended family and want a ceremony to reflect that.

Whatever type of ceremony you want, when I work with you I will create a ceremony, that is personal and special, using the information you give me it will be as individual as you, your child or blended family are.