What is a Naming Ceremony?

Many parents feel that they want to celebrate and share their joy of having a child with family and friends but do not feel that they want a traditional christening or religious ceremony. This may be because they do not hold any religious beliefs themselves or because they want their child to be able to choose their own beliefs when they are older.

A Humanist Naming Ceremony is non-religious and therefore has no worship or fixed rituals. They are appropriate for anyone who would like a non-religious ceremony. The only guideline is that they do not include any religious content such as prayers or hymns. However, it is possible to have a moment of quiet reflection during the ceremony to enable people with religious beliefs to have a private prayer.

A Suggested Outline for a Naming Ceremony

Introduction – introducing your child and what your wishes are for their ceremony, as well as welcoming family and friends and highlighting the importance of their presence and their role in the ceremony

Your Child’s Story – such as: when and where were they born,  what their personality is like and why you chose their names?

Family Story – for example, what they have brought into your life and the things you enjoy doing together, as well as what you are looking forward to sharing in the future

Parental Commitments – promises you would like to make for your child, based on your values and shared aspirations for the future.

Appointment of Guide Parents – this can include why you have chosen these people for this important role.  They can make a joint commitment to your child or write their own promises

Family & Friends – this is an opportunity to recognise Grandparents or other significant family members or friends and the special role that they play in your child’s life.

Joint Commitment & Naming – this is the high point of the ceremony when your child is formally welcomed into the world and given their names

Closing Remarks – what is happening next, such as drinks & a toast, cutting of a naming cake?

For further information please download a suggested outline for a naming ceremony either in Word or PDF format