You’re baby has arrived in the world and you’re looking for a way to celebrate and welcome your new bubs.
Christenings seem to be the “done thing”, where the baby is “brought to Christ” in the form of a ceremony in front of a church congregation. However you’re not religious or you’re just looking for an alternative.
A Dedication Service is a ceremonial ritual performed in front of a congregation and your baby is blessed by a priest or pastor, and affirmations of good health, wealth and a long life are stated. Unlike a Christening, your baby is not baptised.
A non-church alternative is a Welcome Baby Ceremony. This is, essentially, a gathering of family and friends to present and welcome the baby to others. No special rituals or ceremonies are necessarily conducted, and you may wish to keep it to a small gathering and bbq, or a larger party. Cake and other trinkets are not necessary, but can be included if you wish.
It’s entirely up to you how big or small the gathering is.
Naming Ceremonies are another popular choice. The baby is presented by a minister or civil celebrant and their name is declared. Naming ceremonies generally have some ritual or formal procedure performed, such as lighting candles, or presenting or draping the baby with an item with their name on it. A cake is common, as is the ceremonial cutting of the cake.
These sorts of ceremonies can have religious overtones and can be performed in a church, or can be done at home or other venue by a civil celebrant. You may even like to just choose a close friend or family member to conduct the ceremony. There is no need for any formal or legal procedure or performance to take place.
Another ceremonial ritual that is becoming more popular is a Baby Blessing. This stems form a Buddhist rite, however does not necessarily have to be. It involves more rituals than a naming ceremony or Christening, but may also involve a lot more participation by your guests. It is a fun way to have everyone welcome the baby into the world.
Messages of greeting, affirmations, massaging the baby, draping the baby in garments or cloths, lighting of candles and other rituals can be performed.
You can make the welcoming, naming or ceremony as big or small as you like, and as formal or informal as suits you. Whichever way you choose, it is sure to be special for you and you new baby.
