Welcoming a child into your family is a truly special occasion, and many parents want to mark this milestone with a meaningful celebration. For those who are looking for a non-religious yet deeply personal way to introduce their child to family and friends, a humanist naming ceremony could be the perfect choice.

But what exactly is a naming ceremony, and how can you make it a unique and memorable event? In this blog post we’ll explore what a naming ceremony is, what it can look like, and how to involve your loved ones.

Who Are Humanists UK?

Humanists UK are an organisation committed to putting Humanism into practise. Humanism is a non-religious approach to life that celebrates nature as a natural phenomenon explained by science, placing human and animal welfare at the centre of ethical decision making. Humanists UK support those who adhere to this philosophy, whether this be through ceremonies, pastoral support, education services or campaigning work.

What Is A Naming Ceremony?

A naming ceremony is a non-religious celebration in which a child is welcomed is welcomed into the world by their new community of family and friends. They’re most often held for babies or combined with a first birthday celebration, but they can be held for children of any age. Unlike a christening, which is a religious ceremony, a humanist naming ceremony is not an act of worship but focuses entirely on the child as an individual human being, their name, their identity, their potential, and the values that their parents and loved ones wish to nurture in them. Led by a humanist celebrant, they are often uplifting and joyous events, filled with laughter and emotion. 

Humanist naming ceremonies are warm, inclusive, and personal. There’s no prescribed script — each ceremony is unique and tailored to reflect the values and personalities of the family. Whether you want a small, intimate gathering or a bigger event with music, readings, and symbolic rituals, a naming ceremony can be as simple or elaborate as you like.

What Happens At A Naming Ceremony?

One of the wonderful things about a humanist naming ceremony is that each one is bespoke and tailored to the child. While there are no strict rules, most ceremonies include a few key elements: 

1. A warm welcome: the ceremony usually begins with an introduction from a celebrant, setting the tone for the event.
2. The story behind the name: parents often share why they chose their child’s name, and its meaning.
3. Promises and wishes: parents, guideparents (an alternative to godparents), and other loved ones may choose to make promises or commitments to the child, expressing their hopes for their future.
4. Readings and poems: family members or friends might read a meaningful poem, quote, or include a reading that reflects love, joy, and the importance of community.
5. Symbolic gestures: some families choose to include symbolic acts, such as planting a tree, lighting a candle, or creating a time capsule filled with messages for the child to open when they are older.
6. Celebratory conclusion: the ceremony may end with a toast, music, or a group activity like blowing bubbles. The celebrations can then continue after the ceremony, so that you can enjoy time with your family and friends.

Every naming ceremony is personal, and families can design an event that feels authentic to them.

How To Involve Loved Ones In A Naming Ceremony

One of the most memorable aspects of a naming ceremony is bringing family and friends together in a meaningful way.

1. Appoint guideparents who will play a special role in the child’s life. Unlike godparents in a religious setting, guideparents don’t have any official duties but instead offer guidance and support as the child grows. You can choose what you call them – supporting adults, champions, mentors, sparents, fairy godparents – or find a name unique to you!
   
2. You can ask family members or friends to share a few words during the ceremony—whether it’s a piece of advice, a funny story, or a heartfelt message of love and encouragement.
   
3. Celebrate your child’s community: use the event as a way to strengthen bonds between family and friends. Encourage guests to share stories, offer support, and be part of your child’s journey as they grow. Beyond the ceremony itself, take the opportunity to spend quality time with your child and your community—whether it’s through sharing a meal, playing games, or simply catching up with loved ones.

Where Can A Naming Ceremony Be Held?

Humanist naming ceremonies can take place almost anywhere. You might choose your home or garden for an intimate, relaxed gathering, a local park or woodland for a nature-inspired celebration, a beach, a historical site, or any location that holds special significance to your family. There are no limits—wherever feels right for you and your family is the perfect place.

Choosing A Naming Celebrant

A humanist naming celebrant can craft a bespoke ceremony tailored to your family’s needs. Humanist Ceremonies celebrants are accredited by Humanists UK, which means they undergo rigorous training to ensure that each ceremony is personal, inclusive, and conducted to the highest standard. By working with a trusted humanist celebrant, you can be confident of a professional service.

Thanks To Humanists UK

A naming ceremony is a joyous way to celebrate your child’s arrival to the world, and recognise the circle of love and support of family and friends that will help create new memories with them and guide them on their journey to adulthood. Whether you keep it simple or go all out with personal touches, what matters most is that the day feels meaningful to you and your family.

Visit the Humanist Ceremonies map to find a humanist naming celebrant near you

Disclaimer: Humanists UK have paid a fee towards this blog post. This partnership will help us in our goal of connecting more parents with classes and to help find support near them.

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