A naming or welcoming ceremony can be a very special way of honouring the family unit. It can celebrate the birth of a new baby or be a powerful opportunity to acknowledge a new family structure where adoption or step-children/parents are involved.

Elements of introduction, gratitude, inviting support and blessing can be included. Such a ceremony can powerfully acknowledge an individual’s uniqueness while affirming their place within the web of inter-connection which makes up their relationships, whether through the bonds of blood or love.

The role and intentions of parents, grandparents, god-parents or other supporting adults can be explicitly named and affirmed.

Children of any age can be honoured and celebrated through ceremony for the profound gift that they are, both to their family and the world.

Miscarriage or abortion – in these situations, creating appropriate ritual to grieve and take steps towards the healing of loss when a new life does not come to fruition can be profoundly helpful on the journey to recovery.

‘We would like to thank you very much for making this such a special day. It was everything we’d hoped for and more! [The baby] loved being the star of the day and was still smiling at 6pm!’ – Sarah, mother, after a Naming ceremony