Sponsored Guest Blog
We’re big fans of Humanist Ceremonies here at Mumbler HQ, after attending a beautiful and extremely personal humanist funeral, Mumbler’s founder, Sally Haslewood went on to have humanist naming ceremonies for both of her daughters.
We are, therefore, delighted to be able to tell you a little bit more about Humanist Ceremonies and why you might want to consider having a naming ceremony as a fantastic alternative to a traditional Christening.
Humanist naming ceremonies can be held anywhere – at home, in a hall or hotel – or outside, in the garden, a park or private grounds. But woodlands provide a spectacular location for bringing together family and friends, and the rich colours of autumn leaves make the perfect backdrop, and lots of entertainment for everyone.
Throughout history, in all cultures, people have come together to welcome a new child into a family and the wider community. During the lockdowns, of course, the usual celebrations were not permitted, and many babies were born but couldn’t meet their extended families. But rules have now been relaxed, and get-togethers are back, which makes it the ideal time to plan a humanist naming ceremony. for your child, and introduce them to everyone.
A gathering of family and friends in a forest or woods can be a wonderful way to welcome a new member of the family. Being in nature, surrounded by trees and wildlife, is especially fitting for a humanist naming ceremony.
Many woodlands have dedicated spaces for campfires or picnics which can be fun on chilly autumn days, when the sunlight is dappled and the leaves crunchy on the ground. But, whatever the weather, if you are all wrapped up warm and wearing wellies, you’ll be able to enjoy an unforgettable day
A humanist naming ceremony is a non-religious alternative to a traditional Christening or other religious event, for families who want to mark the arrival of their child without religion. It’s an inclusive and joyful occasion, welcoming everyone regardless of their faith or beliefs, and can be as formal or as informal as you like.
The heart of the ceremony is a celebration of the child as an individual, surrounded by the love and support of their family and wider circle of friends on their journey to fulfillment, independence and adulthood.
What happens at a naming ceremony?
Each naming ceremony is unique. Your celebrant will work with you to create an occasion which is totally personal to your child, and might invite you to make to them promises of your love and guidance for their future. Guide parents can share the special roles that they will play in their nurturing and development, and grandparents, siblings and family friends can read poems or other readings, play music or sing. Sometimes a certificate is signed by everyone, or there might be a symbolic gesture, like a tree planting or a sand blending.
We all know, now more than ever, how important it is to create occasions to bring together our family and friends, to create special memories.
Whether you hire a professional photographer or ask a family friend to do the honours, it’s great to capture a happy event like this with photos of the ceremony itself, and all the fun in the woods afterwards. They will be reminders of a special day to treasure for the future.
About Humanist Ceremonies celebrants
Humanist UK’s accredited celebrants have been conducting non-religious ceremonies since 1896 and is the longest-established professional network of celebrants in the world.
FAQs
● What is a humanist naming ceremony?
● What happens at a humanist naming ceremony?
● What’s the difference between a christening and a naming ceremony?
● What are the top ten ideas for a naming ceremony?
● What are non-religious rituals and symbolic actions?
● Which poems can we have for a humanist naming ceremony?
● How can we have a socially distanced naming ceremony?
Find your local celebrant
Visit the Humanist Ceremonies website to find a celebrant near you.
WEBSITE
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Pinterest
Sponsored blog for Humanist Ceremonies
