What is a naming ceremony

A naming ceremony is a very personal event to celebrate your child and his/her place in the family and community of friends.


As the ceremony has no legal status a naming ceremony can incorporate anything you wish. Generally speaking the ceremony is led by an individual, but can be led by the parents, and will include:

A welcome
Promises by the parents
Appointment of sponsors (godparents, mentors, etc)
Sponsor promises
Formal naming
Reason for the choice of names

The ceremony may also include a reading and/or a simple ritual, such a lighting a candle, planting a tree, a blossom blessing, or wishing stones.

While naming ceremonies are usually secular you may request the inclusion of religous references.

A commemorative certificate is also a nice touch. A PDF file for a print-it-yourself certificate is included in the ceremony fee.