A Naming Ceremony is a very personal alternative to a Christening. It can be held when the child is just a few weeks old, or to celebrate a milestone, such as the first birthday.

The ceremony offers you many choices, to tailor the welcome for your child to the family circle.

Symbolism includes:

• releasing helium balloons
• lighting candles
• planting a tree or plant in the family garden
• an imprint of the child's handprint or footprint in a paving block

Many parents choose to nominate someone close to them as a Godparent, Mentor or Guardian of the child. This is a very spcial postion to hold. Usually they will sign a certificate to mark the day. (As do the parents and often grandparents.) Other ways to involve people are to ask them to read a poem, say some personal words or sing a song.

As with all my ceremonies, you will be given a copy of the ceremony to keep and share with your child in future years.

Sample Reading:

A Child Learns What He Lives

If a child lives with criticism, he learns to condemn.
If a child lives with hostility, he learns to fight.
If a child lives with lives with ridicule, he learns to be shy.
If a child lives with shame, he learns to feel guilt.

But…..

If a child lives with tolerance, he learns to be patient.
If a child lives with encouragement, he learns confidence.
If a child lives with fairness, he learns justice.
If a child lives with security, he learns to have faith.
If a child lives with approval, he learns to like himself.
If a child lives with acceptance and friendship, he learns to find love in the world.

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