A humanist naming ceremony is a non-religious ceremony that is performed to celebrate and welcome a new baby into a family and community. It is conducted by a humanist celebrant, who is trained to work with the parents to create a ceremony that reflects their beliefs and values.
A humanist naming ceremony is a way for parents to publicly acknowledge their responsibility for the child and to give them an identity within their family and community. It is an opportunity for family and friends to welcome and support the child, and for the child to be introduced to their community.
A humanist naming ceremony may include elements such as readings, poetry, music, or other forms of expression that reflect the parents’ beliefs and values. It may also include a naming of the child, promises made by the parents to raise the child with love and care, and the support of family and friends.
Unlike a religious baptism or christening, a humanist naming ceremony is not focused on religious doctrine or the belief in a deity. It is a secular and personal ceremony that is created to reflect the parents’ beliefs and values and to mark the arrival of a new family member.
A humanist guide parent is a person who is chosen by the parents to take on a role similar to that of a godparent in a religious ceremony. They are chosen to be a mentor and guide for the child, to provide support and guidance throughout their life.
In a humanist naming ceremony, the guide parent is often asked to make a promise to the child to be there for them, to offer guidance and support, and to be a positive influence in their life. The guide parent may be asked to give a speech or read a poem, or other form of expression.
Guide parent is not an official role or legal status, but rather it is a personal and symbolic role that parents can choose to include in a humanist naming ceremony. It is an opportunity for the parents to choose someone who they trust and respect to play a meaningful role in the child’s life.
It is worth noting that, humanist ceremonies are not legally binding and guide parents do not have any legal rights or responsibilities towards the child, unlike a legal guardianship.