Traditional baby blessing or Christening or Naming ceremony.Opening statement by Officiant
Charge to the parents
Parental promise
Honoring a sibling
Remembering those who have passed
Honoring the grandparents
Responsibility of the Godparents
Candle lighting
Water ceremony; Oil ceremony
Declaration of baby’s name and it’s significance
Closing prayer or blessing
“The Lord bless you, and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you, and be gracious unto you; the Lord lift up his countenance on you and give you peace” Numbers 6:24-26
Nontraditional or informal baby naming ceremony suggestions:
- You may wish to mark the occasion with a guest book in which everyone present can write their own special message for your child to read when they are older.
- Ask them to write a letter which will be opened on a special predetermined day (16th. Birthday, high school graduation, wedding day, when their first child is born, etc) or write a special blessing for the baby to put in their baby book.
- Light a candle to signify the light that will guide and protect your child throughout life’s journey.
- A tree could be planted, which will grow and blossom with your child.
- You may wish to give your child a piece of jewelry, such as a bracelet or pendant to signify your never ending love for them.
- The baby could be passed around from guest to guest with each person greeting the baby and perhaps each one making their own small promise.
- Ask everyone to bring a meaningful book for a gift to start the baby’s own personal library. Request that they write a personal wish or blessing in the book and include a photo of themselves.