Namings
We just wanted to write and thank you so much for carrying out the naming ceremony of Max and Finn. It was exactly what we wanted … touching and meaningful but not overly sentimental. All our guests were full of praise and it felt it more inspiring than a christening. Your easy-going manner makes it so easy for people to warm to you and that makes for the right atmosphere, so one again, thank you very much. I have already recommended you to many people.
Susie, Dave, Max and Finn.
Humanist naming ceremonies are delightful and happy occasions, and respond to the cultural need to welcome a newborn baby, an adopted child or stepchild into his or her family and community. A Humanist naming ceremony reminds all concerned of the immense responsibilities involved in raising a child and acknowledges or appoints those who will have an influential role to play in his or her development.
As a rite, a Humanist naming ceremony refrains from committing parents to raising their child in any particular belief system or religious ideology. Indeed, many parents expressly and purposely choose this form of ceremony to ensure that their child is permitted the freedom to develop his or her own ideals and outlook as he or she journeys through life. They take the view that it is only after their child has had an opportunity to experience and think about what life has to offer will he or she be in a position to choose his or her options knowledgeably and wisely.
Occasionally, parents ask me to conduct ‘joint’ namings for two or more siblings. Sometimes, I am asked to combine a naming with a birthday or a naming with a wedding. The combination of a naming with a wedding works especially well for couples or partners that began a family before opting to marry or where marriage represents a union of two, distinct families.
When I perform naming ceremonies, I encourage parents to consider planting a native tree as a symbol of their dedication to their child. By planting a native tree, they bring more life to our fragile planet. By the same token, I discourage parents from celebrating the occasion with a release of balloons, which pose a risk to the environment and wildlife.
However you seek to welcome a new addition to your family, please feel free to contact me.
We wanted to thank you for officiating at Lexi’s naming day. The ceremony was beautiful, absolutely perfect. Everyone commented on how lovely it was and how brilliant you were. Even John’s nana was impressed (she didn’t really understand why weren’t going for a church christening but she does now!) It was a fantastic day and one, which we will treasure in our memories. Thank you so much for helping us to make it possible. We are truly grateful for your time and expertise.
Jo and John.