Last Saturday, I went to the Naming Ceremony for Lilly and Kodie.
I have never been to such a ceremony before and the idea has always puzzled me. Now I understand.
I must have been slow in my thinking! I used to wonder why non-religious people went to the trouble of having a Christening that they didn't believe in. I wondered if they did it out of fear. Now I can see that there were wanting the ceremony.
The religious Christening has served two purposes --- the religious meaning and the marking of an important event, the arrival of a child. For people who are not believers, the absence of the religious ceremony also meant the absence of an important rite of passage.
The Civil Celebrant was very accomplished. She conducted the ceremony very smoothly, drawing it all together with short speeches at the beginning and end. The theme or purpose was to welcome the child into the family, recognise its uniqueness and value and to assure the child of the love of their parents, family and friends.
There were readings from various people, meaningful question and answer rituals, a signing ceremony and two Godparents for each child. The celebrant had prepared beautiful certificates and a written record of the day. The who deal was warm, personal and elegant.
There's a "problem" with having
Godparents, isn't there? If the parents see a "stand in parent" as valuable, then they want someone for the job, which so far, has only the name "Godparent". I imagine that it won't be very long before there is another name for these substitute parents. Maybe "Mentor"????. The celebrant spoke about the Godparents as being mentors for the children, not using the word but speaking of them helping the child to grow confidently, following a good path.
We all gathered under a large patio at the back of the house, as it was cold and windy outside. It was a lovely atmosphere and even the many little children present were quiet and still and paid attention. I had taken my walker to use as a seat but I found that other thoughtful people had provided me with a comfortable chair. I felt a bit awkward being the only one sitting down, especially as I was front and centre!
We all signed 2 signature bears for the children and admired the presents as they were opened. For Lilly, the ceremony was all about changing her name to that of her step-father. He's a good man, a lovely Father to baby Kodie and should be able to help Lilly to flourish.
We all went for lunch at the Moree Tavern, close handy. Our meals had long been ordered in advance, with the reply to the invitation. Nevertheless, it took over an hour to bring meals for 40 people. That's slack! It was a happy afternoon, ending in Lilly cutting a gorgeous cake made of two hearts, decorated with pretty items to please children. Kodie was sweet and complient for the whole day, going from person to person for a cuddles.
And I forgot to take the camera!
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