A naming that welcomes everyone

With a Humanist naming ceremony you can celebrate the arrival of your child into the world and their wider community in the way that you want.

Humanist ceremonies are by nature inclusive ceremonies and welcome everyone of all faiths and none.  It’s a great opportunity to welcome everyone that’s important to your and your child’s life and to celebrate together.

My role

I will be with you every step of the ceremony-writing process and can suggest readings, songs and how you can structure your ceremony.  I’m here to take the stress out the ceremony; I’m delighted to report that couples have told me that writing the ceremony was the easiest part of the day to organise – tired parents, relax 🙂  I welcome all ideas, please suggest anything and everything – let’s make it happen!

It is of the utmost importance to me that you feel comfortable during the writing of your ceremony so I recommend that we meet before you make a decision about whether you want me as your celebrant.  This is free and you are under no obligation to commit.

After deciding, we meet to go into your ceremony in more depth, discussing the structure and content of the ceremony, as well as practicalities.  Of course we’ll also talk lots about the personality of your child!  I’ll send you some questions for inspiration beforehand, discussing your answers usually sparks lots of other ideas, it’s usually really fun!

After this I deliver a first draft for your review which we then refine together.  I am happy to suggest inspiration for vows and readings for yourself and anyone else involved! I’d also help with vows for you and for guide/godparents/family and readings as much as you would like.

On the day I arrive in plenty of time to make sure everyone and everything is in place and ready to make a unforgettable ceremony!

 

What makes a Humanist naming ceremony different?

A Humanist ceremony put the child at its centre.  It celebrates their unique personality and what they bring to your life.  You can express your hopes for your child’s life and can make promises in the way that you want.  It’s a very flexible structure and we can work in pretty much whatever you might like, such as a sand blending for the whole family, readings and vows.  Humanism celebrates all families with their infinite shapes and structures.

 

What about god/guideparents?

God/guideparents are often a key part of the ceremony.  You can use whatever name you would like for them, be it guideparents, godparents or something more unique like sparents or god-less parents!  Of course, I’m available to help with their vows.

 

Where can I have a naming ceremony?

A naming ceremony can take place wherever you would like!  A local pub, a park, a back garden or a living room are all excellent places to have a naming ceremony.  I’m really happy to discuss options and how best to manage the ceremony in them.

 

Do naming ceremonies only happen for children or babies?

Not at all!  Naming ceremonies are suitable for family members of any age and can be used to mark an important event or transition in their life, such as leaving home or going to high school or university.

 

What about gender affirmation ceremonies?

Humanism welcomes the opportunity to recognise gender transition and to celebrate and affirm this stage in your life and your chosen name.  I very much welcome gender affirmation ceremony enquiries and would love to help you create a ceremony that best celebrates your authentic self.

This is an interesting article into how trans people are reclaiming religious naming ceremonies – much of ethos is very applicable to Humanist ceremonies as well.

 

More information about Humanist naming ceremonies and an FAQ can be found here