Build Your Ceremony Menu
Here is a menu of wording options for all the elements of a ceremony that I have gathered from many resources. Using this unique menu You can create your own ceremony or customize one of my ceremonies .
All can be edited to reflect religious or non-religious ceremonies, interfaith, same sex parents, adoptions-whatever you wish. All wording can be tailored to your desires. Feel free to mix and match too.
Poems may be substituted for prayers. All ceremonies can be personalized to your wishes. For example a couple may want to include siblings, extended family or add a unique element such as a tree planting ceremony, butterfly release or other. See my ADD On Elements for examples
I am also happy to incorporate any religious customs or traditions you would like.
You may find this worksheet helpful when using my build a ceremony menu
Click on "Download File"
All can be edited to reflect religious or non-religious ceremonies, interfaith, same sex parents, adoptions-whatever you wish. All wording can be tailored to your desires. Feel free to mix and match too.
Poems may be substituted for prayers. All ceremonies can be personalized to your wishes. For example a couple may want to include siblings, extended family or add a unique element such as a tree planting ceremony, butterfly release or other. See my ADD On Elements for examples
I am also happy to incorporate any religious customs or traditions you would like.
You may find this worksheet helpful when using my build a ceremony menu
Click on "Download File"
All ceremonies come with a beautiful Baby Blessing or Baptism Certificate!
Choose a Certificate at Thisjoyous.com | |||
Greeting
Option 1
Welcome family and friends to this very special day! Today we celebrate the birth of this child _________. Every person born into this world represents something new, something that never existed before, something original and unique (*) Today we give thanks for _____ presence among us. Today we will bless ____for in her we see infinite potential. She represents the light of the world. She is our future. Only _____ months old and already she has made this world a better place._____ and ___ are grateful for your presence here today to celebrate, welcome and most importantly to participate in the blessing of their child.
(*Quote by Martin Barber)
Option 2
On behalf of _____ and ___ I would like to thank you all for joining them on this joyous Occasion. A child has been born to ___ and _____ . Today before God, before parents, grandparents, godparents, family and friends we will bless and welcome this newly arrived soul into our midst. It is a special day in which her parents introduce her to her extended family, friends, as well as the community that she will live and grow up in. Today we will give thanks for the gift of this precious child. She is our hope. She is our future.
Your presence at this celebration today is greatly appreciated, as your continued support in _____ life will be welcomed and appreciated. All of you are among the most amazing treasures that life has given them, all of you are those that they can call family and friends.
There is one thing that we are certain of: the more love this child receives; the more he will be able to give love to other. The more people that make up his world, the richer his world will be. Each of you have unique gifts and offerings we hope that you will share with this child. It is said that it takes a village to raise a child. Look around you. You are looking at (child’s name) village.
Option 3
On behalf of ____ and ___ I would like to extend a very warm welcome to this naming ceremony, which has been created with much planning, thought and love. With great honor I have the pleasant duty of officially naming ______and welcoming him into his community of family and friends.
Firstly, ____ and ____ would like to express their joy on ______’s arrival on the (Date here). They want to introduce him to the wider community of their friends and the world. They wish you all to share this joy. They would also like you to join with them in celebrating the official naming of their baby boy. Your presence at this celebration today is greatly appreciated.
Option 4 (Adapted from Rev. Macomb Bless this child)
Thank you all for joining ____ and ____ in the blessing of their child _____.
____ and ____ are so grateful for the great gift of their baby, as well as for the gift of family and friends. Every heart filled with love increases Gods presence. So please go to your hearts for this ceremony and open them as wide as you can. Fill yourselves with the glory of God , the beauty that is within you, and that which is all around you-everywhere . It is said: "The winds of grace are always blowing but you have to raise the sails".
Lets raise the sails as we come together now with a united purpose-a holy bond of intent-to give thank for the gift that is ____.
Today we will bless him and welcome him into our spiritual community , the spiritual community we call humanity, the mystical union of souls on earth.
A new child has come into the word. We rejoice for him, his parents, his grandparents, and for all of us who lives will assuredly be enriched by his arrival
Option 5 (Adapted from Rev. Macomb Bless this child)
Few things in this world are as important as raising children. In every age, every era, every time and place, children are our treasures, our future, our immortality—the vital link in the chain of humanity. It has been written : "A child is Gods opinion that the world should go on"
Is there anything in life that gives us more hope than the birth of a child?
Is there anything that motivates a parent more to live-to push on than his or her child?
____ was born to ___ and ___ on (Date of Birth) and we rejoice!
It is for these reasons that we feel the need to formally cerebrate this new life in our midst with a ceremony.
Today we will welcome his arrival into our community with heads bowed in gratitude.
We bless ____ for in him we see infinite potential and we place out greatest hopes. He is our future
Option 6 *Nice for a beach ceremony (Adapted from Rev. Mccomb Bless This Child) I used this opening on the beach-of course the first sentence is optional:
Welcome friends and family to this beautiful setting, beside the vast Atlantic Ocean, with the
sky our only ceiling and the horizon our only walls.
(Parents name) are so grateful for the gift of their baby (child’s name) as well as the gift of
family and friends. Every heart filled with love increases Gods presence. So please go to your
hearts for this ceremony and open them as wide as you can. Fill yourselves with the glory of
God the beauty that is within you and that which is all around you-everywhere! To quote a
spiritual leader “The winds of grace are always blowing. But you have to raise the sails”
Let's raise the sails now as we come together in a united purpose- a Holy bond of intent. To give thanks for the gift that is (child's name). Today we will bless her/him and welcome her/him into our spiritual community, the spiritual community we call humanity, the mystical Union of souls on earth. A new child has come into the world. We rejoice for her, her parents, her grandparents, (her sister/brother) and for all of us whose lives will surely be enriched by her arrival. Every person born into the world represents something new, something that never existed before, something original and unique.
Option 7. Another one good for the beach-of course the fist line is optional
We are gathered here amid the beauty of Gods magnificent creation, where the sun meets the sky, the sky meets the water and the water meets the land, to celebrate the birth of ______ daughter of _____ and ______We are here to welcome, her and pray for her. You have all been invited because as family and friends, your prayers and future involvement in the life of this child are requested and blessed by God himself. We join together our thoughts and sincere goodwill asking that peace might embrace this family and an arc of Gods light surround this child for all her days.
Option 8.
The purpose of this baby blessing is to consciously sanctify the entrance of a soul into the world that this soul might walk through life remembering his/her true essence. Today we give thanks for the miracle of new life, the life that is (child's name). Today we also acknowledge the sacred role of (child's name) parent’s grandparents and godparents as guardians offering unconditional love, acceptance, and wisdom to this new generation. Finally, we acknowledge and honor the interconnectedness of this child with the larger community and indeed with all of creation with hearts filled with joy and gratitude, we formally celebrate ( child's name) presence among us.
**Interfaith couple may want to add this wording to one of the greetings:
Option 1 ( This first option is from the writings Pastor Marie April Gismondi from the Church of Ancient Ways churchofancientways.org )
___ comes from a wonderful family of two different and distinct religions. _____ and ___have come together to share the best of what each has to offer, appreciating their differences, and confirming that love, - which is spoken of in all religions, - is our true home. Out of these two families, a new family has been created.
___ and ____ look forward to raising ____to understand and celebrate both of their religious traditions. There are many paths to becoming a good person, with a strong internal moral compass and a joy of living. It is such an exciting time and place we live in. _____ is free to learn from and embrace all sides of the spiritual paths that have come together, and will make her who she is. So not only is this a joyous occasion, but a spiritual one, as well.
Option 2
(Childs name) is twice blessed for he comes from a wonderful family of two distinct religions, each with their own beautiful traditions. _____ and ___have come together to share the best of what each has to offer . They have selected elements that honor their personal and spiritual beliefs that reflect who they are as a family and have woven them into this blessing ceremony. So not only is this a joyous occasion but a spiritual one as well.
Welcome family and friends to this very special day! Today we celebrate the birth of this child _________. Every person born into this world represents something new, something that never existed before, something original and unique (*) Today we give thanks for _____ presence among us. Today we will bless ____for in her we see infinite potential. She represents the light of the world. She is our future. Only _____ months old and already she has made this world a better place._____ and ___ are grateful for your presence here today to celebrate, welcome and most importantly to participate in the blessing of their child.
(*Quote by Martin Barber)
Option 2
On behalf of _____ and ___ I would like to thank you all for joining them on this joyous Occasion. A child has been born to ___ and _____ . Today before God, before parents, grandparents, godparents, family and friends we will bless and welcome this newly arrived soul into our midst. It is a special day in which her parents introduce her to her extended family, friends, as well as the community that she will live and grow up in. Today we will give thanks for the gift of this precious child. She is our hope. She is our future.
Your presence at this celebration today is greatly appreciated, as your continued support in _____ life will be welcomed and appreciated. All of you are among the most amazing treasures that life has given them, all of you are those that they can call family and friends.
There is one thing that we are certain of: the more love this child receives; the more he will be able to give love to other. The more people that make up his world, the richer his world will be. Each of you have unique gifts and offerings we hope that you will share with this child. It is said that it takes a village to raise a child. Look around you. You are looking at (child’s name) village.
Option 3
On behalf of ____ and ___ I would like to extend a very warm welcome to this naming ceremony, which has been created with much planning, thought and love. With great honor I have the pleasant duty of officially naming ______and welcoming him into his community of family and friends.
Firstly, ____ and ____ would like to express their joy on ______’s arrival on the (Date here). They want to introduce him to the wider community of their friends and the world. They wish you all to share this joy. They would also like you to join with them in celebrating the official naming of their baby boy. Your presence at this celebration today is greatly appreciated.
Option 4 (Adapted from Rev. Macomb Bless this child)
Thank you all for joining ____ and ____ in the blessing of their child _____.
____ and ____ are so grateful for the great gift of their baby, as well as for the gift of family and friends. Every heart filled with love increases Gods presence. So please go to your hearts for this ceremony and open them as wide as you can. Fill yourselves with the glory of God , the beauty that is within you, and that which is all around you-everywhere . It is said: "The winds of grace are always blowing but you have to raise the sails".
Lets raise the sails as we come together now with a united purpose-a holy bond of intent-to give thank for the gift that is ____.
Today we will bless him and welcome him into our spiritual community , the spiritual community we call humanity, the mystical union of souls on earth.
A new child has come into the word. We rejoice for him, his parents, his grandparents, and for all of us who lives will assuredly be enriched by his arrival
Option 5 (Adapted from Rev. Macomb Bless this child)
Few things in this world are as important as raising children. In every age, every era, every time and place, children are our treasures, our future, our immortality—the vital link in the chain of humanity. It has been written : "A child is Gods opinion that the world should go on"
Is there anything in life that gives us more hope than the birth of a child?
Is there anything that motivates a parent more to live-to push on than his or her child?
____ was born to ___ and ___ on (Date of Birth) and we rejoice!
It is for these reasons that we feel the need to formally cerebrate this new life in our midst with a ceremony.
Today we will welcome his arrival into our community with heads bowed in gratitude.
We bless ____ for in him we see infinite potential and we place out greatest hopes. He is our future
Option 6 *Nice for a beach ceremony (Adapted from Rev. Mccomb Bless This Child) I used this opening on the beach-of course the first sentence is optional:
Welcome friends and family to this beautiful setting, beside the vast Atlantic Ocean, with the
sky our only ceiling and the horizon our only walls.
(Parents name) are so grateful for the gift of their baby (child’s name) as well as the gift of
family and friends. Every heart filled with love increases Gods presence. So please go to your
hearts for this ceremony and open them as wide as you can. Fill yourselves with the glory of
God the beauty that is within you and that which is all around you-everywhere! To quote a
spiritual leader “The winds of grace are always blowing. But you have to raise the sails”
Let's raise the sails now as we come together in a united purpose- a Holy bond of intent. To give thanks for the gift that is (child's name). Today we will bless her/him and welcome her/him into our spiritual community, the spiritual community we call humanity, the mystical Union of souls on earth. A new child has come into the world. We rejoice for her, her parents, her grandparents, (her sister/brother) and for all of us whose lives will surely be enriched by her arrival. Every person born into the world represents something new, something that never existed before, something original and unique.
Option 7. Another one good for the beach-of course the fist line is optional
We are gathered here amid the beauty of Gods magnificent creation, where the sun meets the sky, the sky meets the water and the water meets the land, to celebrate the birth of ______ daughter of _____ and ______We are here to welcome, her and pray for her. You have all been invited because as family and friends, your prayers and future involvement in the life of this child are requested and blessed by God himself. We join together our thoughts and sincere goodwill asking that peace might embrace this family and an arc of Gods light surround this child for all her days.
Option 8.
The purpose of this baby blessing is to consciously sanctify the entrance of a soul into the world that this soul might walk through life remembering his/her true essence. Today we give thanks for the miracle of new life, the life that is (child's name). Today we also acknowledge the sacred role of (child's name) parent’s grandparents and godparents as guardians offering unconditional love, acceptance, and wisdom to this new generation. Finally, we acknowledge and honor the interconnectedness of this child with the larger community and indeed with all of creation with hearts filled with joy and gratitude, we formally celebrate ( child's name) presence among us.
**Interfaith couple may want to add this wording to one of the greetings:
Option 1 ( This first option is from the writings Pastor Marie April Gismondi from the Church of Ancient Ways churchofancientways.org )
___ comes from a wonderful family of two different and distinct religions. _____ and ___have come together to share the best of what each has to offer, appreciating their differences, and confirming that love, - which is spoken of in all religions, - is our true home. Out of these two families, a new family has been created.
___ and ____ look forward to raising ____to understand and celebrate both of their religious traditions. There are many paths to becoming a good person, with a strong internal moral compass and a joy of living. It is such an exciting time and place we live in. _____ is free to learn from and embrace all sides of the spiritual paths that have come together, and will make her who she is. So not only is this a joyous occasion, but a spiritual one, as well.
Option 2
(Childs name) is twice blessed for he comes from a wonderful family of two distinct religions, each with their own beautiful traditions. _____ and ___have come together to share the best of what each has to offer . They have selected elements that honor their personal and spiritual beliefs that reflect who they are as a family and have woven them into this blessing ceremony. So not only is this a joyous occasion but a spiritual one as well.
Invocation
This is the opening prayer that asks God to be here and bless this ceremony- for non-religious you can use a poem.
Option 1 (Unitarian prayer)
Let us pray,
Heavenly Father, we ask for Your Blessing here today. Protect our family and community and surround us with your infinite unconditional love. Keep us mindful that the miracle of new life is both a gift and path back to you. We ask that our sense of community be strengthened by what we are about to witness here today. Amen.
Option 2
Let us begin with a prayer of thanks:
Dear God,
Bless this beautiful baby boy/girl
May his/her heart be loving and giving
May his/her hands be busy as he/she learns and grows
May his/her eyes take in the beauty all around him/her
May his/her ears hear what is good and true
May his/her mouth sing with rejoicing
May his/her feet walk on life giving paths which lead to love and truth
May his/her mind be full of hope and forgiveness
May his/her days be filled with love and happiness
Amen.
Option 3
God, for the joy of this occasion we thank you. For the meaning of this special day we thank you. For this important moment in (Baby’s name) life we thank you. For your presence here and now and for your presence at all times, we thank you. Amen.
Option 4 (Irish Baby Blessing)
May all the blessings of our Lord touch your life today.
May He send His little angels to protect you on your way.
Such a miraculous gift, sent from above.
Someone so precious to cherish and love.
May sunshine and moonbeams dance over your head.
As you quietly slumber in your bed.
May good luck be with you wherever you go.
And your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow.
Option 5
Heavenly Father we thank you for the gift of this child.
We pray for his/her life and well-being.
We pray for his/her parents, that they may be filled with the spirit of the Lord.
May they receive your strength by which to hold this child.
Your love by which to raise her/him
And your grace by which to guide this family now and always, Amen
Option 6 Psalm 100
Serve the Lord with gladness
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, in all lands far and wide
Serve the Lord with gladness
Come before his presence signing.
Know that the Lord is God.
It is he that made us, And not we ourselves: We are his people, And the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, And his courts with praise
Be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
For the Lord is good: his mercy is everlasting; To all generations Amen
Option 7
Dear ____ May you know that each sunrise is a promise of a new beginning.
May no storm last so long as to shadow your spirit.
May you hear God's voice in the wind and in the sound of your own laughter.
May you see God's face in every person you meet, in every flower, and in every living thing
May you know that you are never alone, that you are guided by an eternal force, loving and powerful beyond measure.
May your days be good and long upon the earth. Amen
~For non-religious let’s begin with a Poem or Reading >
Let us pray,
Heavenly Father, we ask for Your Blessing here today. Protect our family and community and surround us with your infinite unconditional love. Keep us mindful that the miracle of new life is both a gift and path back to you. We ask that our sense of community be strengthened by what we are about to witness here today. Amen.
Option 2
Let us begin with a prayer of thanks:
Dear God,
Bless this beautiful baby boy/girl
May his/her heart be loving and giving
May his/her hands be busy as he/she learns and grows
May his/her eyes take in the beauty all around him/her
May his/her ears hear what is good and true
May his/her mouth sing with rejoicing
May his/her feet walk on life giving paths which lead to love and truth
May his/her mind be full of hope and forgiveness
May his/her days be filled with love and happiness
Amen.
Option 3
God, for the joy of this occasion we thank you. For the meaning of this special day we thank you. For this important moment in (Baby’s name) life we thank you. For your presence here and now and for your presence at all times, we thank you. Amen.
Option 4 (Irish Baby Blessing)
May all the blessings of our Lord touch your life today.
May He send His little angels to protect you on your way.
Such a miraculous gift, sent from above.
Someone so precious to cherish and love.
May sunshine and moonbeams dance over your head.
As you quietly slumber in your bed.
May good luck be with you wherever you go.
And your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow.
Option 5
Heavenly Father we thank you for the gift of this child.
We pray for his/her life and well-being.
We pray for his/her parents, that they may be filled with the spirit of the Lord.
May they receive your strength by which to hold this child.
Your love by which to raise her/him
And your grace by which to guide this family now and always, Amen
Option 6 Psalm 100
Serve the Lord with gladness
Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, in all lands far and wide
Serve the Lord with gladness
Come before his presence signing.
Know that the Lord is God.
It is he that made us, And not we ourselves: We are his people, And the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, And his courts with praise
Be thankful unto him, and bless his name.
For the Lord is good: his mercy is everlasting; To all generations Amen
Option 7
Dear ____ May you know that each sunrise is a promise of a new beginning.
May no storm last so long as to shadow your spirit.
May you hear God's voice in the wind and in the sound of your own laughter.
May you see God's face in every person you meet, in every flower, and in every living thing
May you know that you are never alone, that you are guided by an eternal force, loving and powerful beyond measure.
May your days be good and long upon the earth. Amen
~For non-religious let’s begin with a Poem or Reading >
Dedication Of Name
Option 1 (This is adapted from a traditional Jewish blessing for baby naming ceremony)
Officiant:
In every birth, blessed is the wonder.
In every creation, blessed is the new beginning.
In every child, blessed is life.
In every hope, blessed is the potential.
In every transition, blessed is the beginning.
In every existence, blessed are the possibilities.
In every love, blessed are the tears.
In every life, blessed is the love.
There are three names by which a person is called:
One which her father and mother call her,
And one which people call her,
And one which she earns for herself.
The best one of these is the one that she earns for herself.
To be named is to have an identity. By giving our child a name we welcome him/her to the realm of individuals. A name can reflect our heritage, honor family and sometimes reflect our personality.
As ___ grows she will acquire her own names and titles, some may even reflect her unique traits and personality. Her parents have given her a name to begin her journey.
Officiant: To parents
What name have you chosen for your child?
Father: “We have chosen the name ___” (You may want to say meaning of name)
Mother: “We have also chosen the name _____, (You may want to say meaning of name)
Option 2
Officiant:
What name have you chosen for this child?
Parents answer: ______ _____
So be it. We christen you ______ ______ in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Amen. I christen you that you may know the pure and holy spirit of God, your eternal source of faith. May you come to know God within your heart all the days of your life and express your highest potential in Christian service.
Option 3
Names are important; it is by our name that each of us is acknowledged as an individual and called to live our own unique lives.
Officiant to Child: Now in the presence of loved ones, we give to you the name (Parents can say name or Officiant) _________.
Officiant:
Let it become a name honored and respected for wisdom and good deeds. _________, we commit ourselves to the unfolding of your promise, may you walk the paths of beauty. goodness, and truth. Do justly, love mercy, and be humble before the mystery of life and the grandeur of the universe into which you have been born.
May God's blessing rest on you today and always.
Parental Vows
Intro Option 1
Officiant to Parents:
_____ and ___ Parenthood will bring you the greatest joys and the greatest worries. It is at once the most rewarding yet challenging of all jobs. The role of parent adds profound meaning and purpose to our existence. As (child's name) parents' you will be their most important role models. It is your responsibility to care for, nurture and provide for her and to create a foundation of support, love and respect so that she can stand on her own two feet when the time comes. So it is only right that this ceremony includes your promises to your daughter as she grows.
**You may choose all of these promises to be included in your ceremony of just your favorites. Feel free to mix and match/combine as well.
Officiant:
1). ___ and _____ will you promise to love, nurture, and support _____, and to create a healthy environment so that she may grow on her specific path? If so, please answer “We will.”
Parents: We will
2). Do you promise to see her and honor her as a unique individual and to give her the freedom to live the life that is calling her.
Parents: Yes.
3). To teach _____ right from wrong, to enable her to make her place in society as a kind and caring person?
Parents: Yes.
4). To teach her the virtues of honesty, integrity, kindness, gratitude, discipline, courage and responsibility
Parents: “Yes.”
5). To teach _____ to celebrate diversity, never ever being aware of prejudice. Knowing no boundaries, to be loving of all that surrounds her in her life, and celebrate the similarities and differences in our world?
Parents: Yes.
6). To teach her to show mercy to all living things and the value of giving?
Parents: Yes.
7). To take from this earth only what she really need so that there is enough for others?
Parents: “Yes.”
Officiant to Parents : May Gods infinite love, strength and wisdom be with you in this amazing role. (child’s name) is blessed to have you as his/her parents
***
Intro Option 2
_____ and ___ Parenthood will bring you the greatest joys and the greatest worries. It is at once the most rewarding yet challenging of all jobs. Parents have a special kind of love in their hearts; it is a love without end. As _____ parents you most of all will be his caregivers and providers, his teachers, advocates, organizers, cheerleaders and champions. So it is only right that this ceremony should include your promises to your son as he grows into manhood.
___ and _____ will you promise to love, nurture, and support _____, and to create a healthy environment so that he may grow on her specific path? Will you tech him right from wrong and to conduct your own life so that by both word and example, ______ may learn right from wrong, enabling him to make his place in society as a kind and caring person? Will you strive to do this to the best of your ability? If so, please answer “We will.”
Parents: “We will”
Officiant to Parents : May Gods infinite love, strength and wisdom be with you in this amazing role. (child’s name) is blessed to have you as his/her parents
(Optional reading) Officiant: I would like to share the beautiful advice for parenting as written by William Martin:
Do not ask your children to strive for extraordinary lives.
Such striving may seem admirable, but it is the way of foolishness.
Help them instead to find the wonder and the marvel of an ordinary life.
Show them the joy of tasting tomatoes, apples and pears.
Show them how to cry when pets and people die.
Show them the infinite pleasure in the touch of a hand.
And make the ordinary come alive for them.
The extraordinary will take care of itself.”
Officiant to Parents:
_____ and ___ Parenthood will bring you the greatest joys and the greatest worries. It is at once the most rewarding yet challenging of all jobs. The role of parent adds profound meaning and purpose to our existence. As (child's name) parents' you will be their most important role models. It is your responsibility to care for, nurture and provide for her and to create a foundation of support, love and respect so that she can stand on her own two feet when the time comes. So it is only right that this ceremony includes your promises to your daughter as she grows.
**You may choose all of these promises to be included in your ceremony of just your favorites. Feel free to mix and match/combine as well.
Officiant:
1). ___ and _____ will you promise to love, nurture, and support _____, and to create a healthy environment so that she may grow on her specific path? If so, please answer “We will.”
Parents: We will
2). Do you promise to see her and honor her as a unique individual and to give her the freedom to live the life that is calling her.
Parents: Yes.
3). To teach _____ right from wrong, to enable her to make her place in society as a kind and caring person?
Parents: Yes.
4). To teach her the virtues of honesty, integrity, kindness, gratitude, discipline, courage and responsibility
Parents: “Yes.”
5). To teach _____ to celebrate diversity, never ever being aware of prejudice. Knowing no boundaries, to be loving of all that surrounds her in her life, and celebrate the similarities and differences in our world?
Parents: Yes.
6). To teach her to show mercy to all living things and the value of giving?
Parents: Yes.
7). To take from this earth only what she really need so that there is enough for others?
Parents: “Yes.”
Officiant to Parents : May Gods infinite love, strength and wisdom be with you in this amazing role. (child’s name) is blessed to have you as his/her parents
***
Intro Option 2
_____ and ___ Parenthood will bring you the greatest joys and the greatest worries. It is at once the most rewarding yet challenging of all jobs. Parents have a special kind of love in their hearts; it is a love without end. As _____ parents you most of all will be his caregivers and providers, his teachers, advocates, organizers, cheerleaders and champions. So it is only right that this ceremony should include your promises to your son as he grows into manhood.
___ and _____ will you promise to love, nurture, and support _____, and to create a healthy environment so that he may grow on her specific path? Will you tech him right from wrong and to conduct your own life so that by both word and example, ______ may learn right from wrong, enabling him to make his place in society as a kind and caring person? Will you strive to do this to the best of your ability? If so, please answer “We will.”
Parents: “We will”
Officiant to Parents : May Gods infinite love, strength and wisdom be with you in this amazing role. (child’s name) is blessed to have you as his/her parents
(Optional reading) Officiant: I would like to share the beautiful advice for parenting as written by William Martin:
Do not ask your children to strive for extraordinary lives.
Such striving may seem admirable, but it is the way of foolishness.
Help them instead to find the wonder and the marvel of an ordinary life.
Show them the joy of tasting tomatoes, apples and pears.
Show them how to cry when pets and people die.
Show them the infinite pleasure in the touch of a hand.
And make the ordinary come alive for them.
The extraordinary will take care of itself.”
Godparents Charge/Promise
Option 1
Officiant:
Children need many resources of support and for this reason we have the tradition of appointing Godparents. Godparents are someone who promises to teach and guide the child spiritually. Someone who through both word and example will help this child know that he is a beloved child of god.
(Parents names) have ask ___ and ____ to take on this special role in _____ life
Officiant to Godparents:
To be a Godparent is a great honor and responsibility. (Parent’s names) have chosen you with great consideration and care. They trust you and hold you in the highest regard..
I now ask you, as Godparents to this child will you, to the best of your ability offer, love, guidance, counsel and encouragement to _____? Be her/his advocate and confidant for life and be someone she/he can turn to as a friend, who will love her/him unconditionally. Will you keep this child in your care and prayers always?
Godparents say: We will
Officiant to Godparents: May God bless you and grant you joy in the giving of yourself to this beloved child of God
Option 2
Officiant:
_____and _____, as Godparents to ______, God will give you the wisdom and ability to hold within your heart forever his spiritual welfare. You are charged with the responsibility of seeing to the spiritual welfare of this child should the need arise and it is you who stands as spiritual counselors.
Do you accept this duty and charge?
Godparents: respond: We do.
Do you promise to love, honor, support and encourage ______ throughout his life?
Godparents: respond: We do.
Officiant to Godparents:
May you always know how special you are to ___ and ____ that they would ask you to tend to the most precious thing that they have in this world
Option 3
Children need many resources of support and for this reason we have the tradition of appointing Godparents. These chosen people will have a special life long relationship with this child.
I would like to invite (Godparents names) to please come forward.
(Parents’ names) have asked you to take on the role of Godparents to (Childs name).
To be a Godparent is a great honor and responsibility. (Parent’s names) have chosen you with great consideration and care. They trust you and hold you in the highest regard.
As Godparents to (child's name) will you promise to love her unconditionally, be her friend, and inspire her, share yourselves with her? Will you nourish her soul and allow her to dream great dreams, help her to discover her own true self and let her know that she is never alone?
Godparents: We will
Officiant to Godparents: May you always be aware of the joy that you bring to this child and this family by taking on this special role.
Option 4
Godparents Charge & Promise:
Officiant:
A wonderful tradition in our culture on these occasions is the responsibility accepted by Godparents.
Godparents are those who promise they will be there to help the child grow spiritually. Theirs is a place in _____’s life almost like a guardian angel. The promise is one of a physical presence in her life as someone who she knows will always be standing quietly behind her, encouraging her to make good choices, and sharing with her the lessons they themselves have learned along the way.
Today _____ and ___ have agreed to become involved in _____'s life by promising to be there for her should she need support, wisdom, comfort and guidance.
They have been chosen by ___ and ____ because of their connection with them, and the family. The fact that they have been chosen by ____ and ___ is an indicator of their position of trust, and respect within this family.
Officiant to Godparents: Will you, to the best of your ability offer, love, guidance, counsel and encouragement to _____? Be her/his advocate and confidant for life and be someone she/he can turn to as a friend, who will love her/him unconditionally. Will you keep this child in your care and prayers always?
Godparents say: We will
Officiant to Godparents: May you always be aware of the joy that you bring to this child and this family by taking on this special role.
Officiant:
Children need many resources of support and for this reason we have the tradition of appointing Godparents. Godparents are someone who promises to teach and guide the child spiritually. Someone who through both word and example will help this child know that he is a beloved child of god.
(Parents names) have ask ___ and ____ to take on this special role in _____ life
Officiant to Godparents:
To be a Godparent is a great honor and responsibility. (Parent’s names) have chosen you with great consideration and care. They trust you and hold you in the highest regard..
I now ask you, as Godparents to this child will you, to the best of your ability offer, love, guidance, counsel and encouragement to _____? Be her/his advocate and confidant for life and be someone she/he can turn to as a friend, who will love her/him unconditionally. Will you keep this child in your care and prayers always?
Godparents say: We will
Officiant to Godparents: May God bless you and grant you joy in the giving of yourself to this beloved child of God
Option 2
Officiant:
_____and _____, as Godparents to ______, God will give you the wisdom and ability to hold within your heart forever his spiritual welfare. You are charged with the responsibility of seeing to the spiritual welfare of this child should the need arise and it is you who stands as spiritual counselors.
Do you accept this duty and charge?
Godparents: respond: We do.
Do you promise to love, honor, support and encourage ______ throughout his life?
Godparents: respond: We do.
Officiant to Godparents:
May you always know how special you are to ___ and ____ that they would ask you to tend to the most precious thing that they have in this world
Option 3
Children need many resources of support and for this reason we have the tradition of appointing Godparents. These chosen people will have a special life long relationship with this child.
I would like to invite (Godparents names) to please come forward.
(Parents’ names) have asked you to take on the role of Godparents to (Childs name).
To be a Godparent is a great honor and responsibility. (Parent’s names) have chosen you with great consideration and care. They trust you and hold you in the highest regard.
As Godparents to (child's name) will you promise to love her unconditionally, be her friend, and inspire her, share yourselves with her? Will you nourish her soul and allow her to dream great dreams, help her to discover her own true self and let her know that she is never alone?
Godparents: We will
Officiant to Godparents: May you always be aware of the joy that you bring to this child and this family by taking on this special role.
Option 4
Godparents Charge & Promise:
Officiant:
A wonderful tradition in our culture on these occasions is the responsibility accepted by Godparents.
Godparents are those who promise they will be there to help the child grow spiritually. Theirs is a place in _____’s life almost like a guardian angel. The promise is one of a physical presence in her life as someone who she knows will always be standing quietly behind her, encouraging her to make good choices, and sharing with her the lessons they themselves have learned along the way.
Today _____ and ___ have agreed to become involved in _____'s life by promising to be there for her should she need support, wisdom, comfort and guidance.
They have been chosen by ___ and ____ because of their connection with them, and the family. The fact that they have been chosen by ____ and ___ is an indicator of their position of trust, and respect within this family.
Officiant to Godparents: Will you, to the best of your ability offer, love, guidance, counsel and encouragement to _____? Be her/his advocate and confidant for life and be someone she/he can turn to as a friend, who will love her/him unconditionally. Will you keep this child in your care and prayers always?
Godparents say: We will
Officiant to Godparents: May you always be aware of the joy that you bring to this child and this family by taking on this special role.
Acknowledging Grandparents
Option 1
Officiant:
There is no other bond quite like that of a grandparent and their grandchild. Grandparents are a family’s greatest treasure, the founders of a loving legacy, the greatest storytellers, and the keepers of traditions that linger on in cherished memory. Grandparents are the family’s strong foundation. They have a special love that sets them apart from anyone else. They are always there to love you unconditionally, to listen when you feel like you’re not being heard, and to give advice that is always wise and pure of heart.
_____ is honored to have her grandparents (say all grandparents names) here today.
Officiant to grandparents: _____ and ____ are grateful to have you in their daughter’s life. May God bless you and may you always be aware of the very special bond between a grandparent and grandchild.
Option 2
There is no other bond quite like that of a grandparent and their grandchild. Grandparents are a family’s greatest treasure, the founders of a loving legacy the greatest storytellers, and the keepers of traditions that linger on in cherished memory. Grandparents are the family’s strong foundation. They have a special love that sets them apart from anyone else. They are always there to love you unconditionally, to listen when you feel like you’re not being heard, and to give advice that is always wise and pure of heart.
____ is honored to have (say grandparents names) here today.
Officiant to the grandparents: There is a blessing that says “May you live to see your children’s children” I can only imagine how blessed it must be to see your children’s children.
It is in honor of all family members past and present that we offer this quote by Alice Walker : “ To acknowledge our ancestors means we are aware that we did not make ourselves, that the line stretches all the way back, perhaps to God. The grace with which we embrace life, in spite of the pain, the sorrows, is always a measure of what has gone before”
On this special day we see a lineage of love passed from generation to generation. In Plato’s words: “Love is immortal”.
Grandparents, on your grandson’s blessing day, we honor you. We thank you.
Option 3 this option includes vows
Grandparents make the world...a little softer, a little kinder, a little warmer.
_____ is blessed to have her grandparents (Say all their names) here today
Grandparents your granddaughter/son will benefit from your wisdom and unconditional love. As well as that special spoiling that only Grandparents do.
It has been said " The Grandparents-Grandchild relationship is the only relationship in which people are crazy about each other simply because they're breathing,"
To quote the writer Alex Haley~ "Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children".
I would like to invite the Grandparent to please come forward and each place their hand on their grandchild and silently say a blessing on her/him
(Once they have blessed their grandchild they take their seats)
Officiant to Grandparents: May God bless you and may you always be aware of the very special bond between a grandparent and grandchild.
Often at this time a grandparent would like to come forward and read a poem or offer a prayer. See my collection of readings and poems.
Officiant:
There is no other bond quite like that of a grandparent and their grandchild. Grandparents are a family’s greatest treasure, the founders of a loving legacy, the greatest storytellers, and the keepers of traditions that linger on in cherished memory. Grandparents are the family’s strong foundation. They have a special love that sets them apart from anyone else. They are always there to love you unconditionally, to listen when you feel like you’re not being heard, and to give advice that is always wise and pure of heart.
_____ is honored to have her grandparents (say all grandparents names) here today.
Officiant to grandparents: _____ and ____ are grateful to have you in their daughter’s life. May God bless you and may you always be aware of the very special bond between a grandparent and grandchild.
Option 2
There is no other bond quite like that of a grandparent and their grandchild. Grandparents are a family’s greatest treasure, the founders of a loving legacy the greatest storytellers, and the keepers of traditions that linger on in cherished memory. Grandparents are the family’s strong foundation. They have a special love that sets them apart from anyone else. They are always there to love you unconditionally, to listen when you feel like you’re not being heard, and to give advice that is always wise and pure of heart.
____ is honored to have (say grandparents names) here today.
Officiant to the grandparents: There is a blessing that says “May you live to see your children’s children” I can only imagine how blessed it must be to see your children’s children.
It is in honor of all family members past and present that we offer this quote by Alice Walker : “ To acknowledge our ancestors means we are aware that we did not make ourselves, that the line stretches all the way back, perhaps to God. The grace with which we embrace life, in spite of the pain, the sorrows, is always a measure of what has gone before”
On this special day we see a lineage of love passed from generation to generation. In Plato’s words: “Love is immortal”.
Grandparents, on your grandson’s blessing day, we honor you. We thank you.
Option 3 this option includes vows
Grandparents make the world...a little softer, a little kinder, a little warmer.
_____ is blessed to have her grandparents (Say all their names) here today
Grandparents your granddaughter/son will benefit from your wisdom and unconditional love. As well as that special spoiling that only Grandparents do.
It has been said " The Grandparents-Grandchild relationship is the only relationship in which people are crazy about each other simply because they're breathing,"
To quote the writer Alex Haley~ "Nobody can do for little children what grandparents do. Grandparents sort of sprinkle stardust over the lives of little children".
I would like to invite the Grandparent to please come forward and each place their hand on their grandchild and silently say a blessing on her/him
(Once they have blessed their grandchild they take their seats)
Officiant to Grandparents: May God bless you and may you always be aware of the very special bond between a grandparent and grandchild.
Often at this time a grandparent would like to come forward and read a poem or offer a prayer. See my collection of readings and poems.
The Blessing Of The Child
Keep in mind all wording can be tailored to fit your wishes. Wording can also be combined if you like.
Water Blessing Option 1
~Blessing Of Life~
Officiant:
Water is nature’s greatest element; in all the stories of creation water is the symbol of life. Water is infinite; it touches every shore, nourishing all people. It’s always in motion, taking on new forms -representing the great flow of life. It is a symbol of purity, clarity, reflection, wisdom and transition. It refreshes us, cleanses us and rejuvenates us. (This line is optional) Jesus walked into the waters of the river Jordan and emerged anointed with spirit.
We will now use this gift of water to bless this child:
(*Optional element: The water I bring has already had prayers of blessing said over it, However at this point, if you like, we can say a prayer of blessing over the water before blessing the child with it. see example below)~Let me know if you would like to include this
Let us begin with a prayer of blessing upon this water
Heavenly Father (or if you prefer: Blessed Spirit), please bless and sanctify this water with the infinite light of love, just as the brilliant sun shines on vast oceans, rapid running rivers and the quiet, calm lakes of creation so may this love and the blessings of the universe run through this water. Amen.
*See more "Blessing of the Water wording Options" in my Add on tab* There is even an option for family and friends to bless the water using rose petals!
Dear Little One, we welcome you with love, and ask for these Blessings to flow from Above,
May the love that surrounds you today will wash over you like rain every day of your life, just as this water rains on you now…
The Blessing of the Child
(As I will address your new baby I will use the blessed water on the top of her/his head, her/his forehead, her/his heart, both her/his hands and both her/his feet)
Officiant rubs the blessed water on the top of her/his head and says:
You are connected, protected, loved, and blessed.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on her/his forehead and says:
All your senses are blessed, protected, and awakened.
Officiant rubs the blessed water over her heart and says:
Your heart is blessed so that you may feel compassion for yourself and others.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on both her/his hands and says:
Your hands are blessed so that you may reach out to the world.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on both her/his feet and says:
Your feet are blessed so that you may connect with the earth, be grounded, and stand your ground in this world. Know that your spirit is strong and it will guide you through this life.. Know that you are deeply loved and that your presence brings overwhelming joy.
Water is nature’s greatest element; in all the stories of creation water is the symbol of life. Water is infinite; it touches every shore, nourishing all people. It’s always in motion, taking on new forms -representing the great flow of life. It is a symbol of purity, clarity, reflection, wisdom and transition. It refreshes us, cleanses us and rejuvenates us. (This line is optional) Jesus walked into the waters of the river Jordan and emerged anointed with spirit.
We will now use this gift of water to bless this child:
(*Optional element: The water I bring has already had prayers of blessing said over it, However at this point, if you like, we can say a prayer of blessing over the water before blessing the child with it. see example below)~Let me know if you would like to include this
Let us begin with a prayer of blessing upon this water
Heavenly Father (or if you prefer: Blessed Spirit), please bless and sanctify this water with the infinite light of love, just as the brilliant sun shines on vast oceans, rapid running rivers and the quiet, calm lakes of creation so may this love and the blessings of the universe run through this water. Amen.
*See more "Blessing of the Water wording Options" in my Add on tab* There is even an option for family and friends to bless the water using rose petals!
Dear Little One, we welcome you with love, and ask for these Blessings to flow from Above,
May the love that surrounds you today will wash over you like rain every day of your life, just as this water rains on you now…
The Blessing of the Child
(As I will address your new baby I will use the blessed water on the top of her/his head, her/his forehead, her/his heart, both her/his hands and both her/his feet)
Officiant rubs the blessed water on the top of her/his head and says:
You are connected, protected, loved, and blessed.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on her/his forehead and says:
All your senses are blessed, protected, and awakened.
Officiant rubs the blessed water over her heart and says:
Your heart is blessed so that you may feel compassion for yourself and others.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on both her/his hands and says:
Your hands are blessed so that you may reach out to the world.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on both her/his feet and says:
Your feet are blessed so that you may connect with the earth, be grounded, and stand your ground in this world. Know that your spirit is strong and it will guide you through this life.. Know that you are deeply loved and that your presence brings overwhelming joy.
Water Blessing Option 2
~Blessings of Love~
~Blessings of Love~
Officiant:
Water is nature’s greatest element; in all the stories of creation water is the symbol of life. Water is infinite; it touches every shore, nourishing all people. It’s always in motion, taking on new forms -representing the great flow of life. It is a symbol of purity, clarity, reflection, wisdom and transition. It refreshes us, cleanses us and rejuvenates us. (This line is optional) Jesus walked into the waters of the river Jordan and emerged anointed with spirit.
We will now use this gift of water to bless this child:
(Officiant sprinkles water over the child’s head)
I baptize you (Child's full name) as a child of God, a child of light and a child of humanity
Water is nature’s greatest element; in all the stories of creation water is the symbol of life. Water is infinite; it touches every shore, nourishing all people. It’s always in motion, taking on new forms -representing the great flow of life. It is a symbol of purity, clarity, reflection, wisdom and transition. It refreshes us, cleanses us and rejuvenates us. (This line is optional) Jesus walked into the waters of the river Jordan and emerged anointed with spirit.
We will now use this gift of water to bless this child:
(Officiant sprinkles water over the child’s head)
I baptize you (Child's full name) as a child of God, a child of light and a child of humanity
Universal Baptism Option 1 ~
~Combined with Water Blessing~
(Adapted from Frances Thompson and William Blake )
~Combined with Water Blessing~
(Adapted from Frances Thompson and William Blake )
Officiant:
Children are magical; A child brings us back to who we were before we are distracted by all the layers of baggage that we accumulate through the years. A child brings us back to innocence and glee- to the sheer joy of being alive. They return us to the best of our own childhood. In this spirit I would like to share a reading with you
Know you what it is to be a child? ... It is to have a spirit yet streaming from the waters of baptism;
It is to believe in love, to believe in loveliness,
to believe in belief; it is to be so little that the elves can reach to whisper in your ear;
It is to turn pumpkins into coaches, and mice into horses, lowness into loftiness, and nothing into everything, -
For each child has a fairy god-mother in his own soul; it is to live in a nutshell and count yourself the king of infinite space;
It is: to see the World in a grain of sand,
And a heaven in a wild flower,
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
And eternity in an hour.
At the very dawn of creation, God used his spirit to breathe life into the waters, making them the wellspring of life. Water is a symbol of purity, clarity, reflection, wisdom and transition. It refreshes us, cleanses us and rejuvenates us. (This line is optional) Jesus walked into the waters of the river Jordan and emerged anointed with spirit.
We will now use this gift of water to bless this child:
(Officiant pours Water over the child's head and says): I baptize you ______, as a child of God, a child of light and a child of humanity. (Or you may just say Child of God)
Our wish for you ____, is that the love that surrounds you today will wash over you like rain every day of your life, just as this water rains on you now…
Officiant rubs the blessed water on the top of his head and says:
You are connected, protected, loved, and blessed.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on his forehead and says:
All your senses are blessed, protected, and awakened.
Officiant rubs the blessed water over his heart and says:
Your heart is blessed so that you may feel compassion for yourself and others.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on both his hands and says:
Your hands are blessed so that you may reach out to the world.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on both his feet and says:
Your feet are blessed so that you may connect with the earth, be grounded, and stand your ground in this world. Know that your spirit is strong and it will guide you through this life.. Know that you are deeply loved and that your presence brings overwhelming joy.
May Gods illumination reside with you, now and forever. God’s peace be upon you.
Children are magical; A child brings us back to who we were before we are distracted by all the layers of baggage that we accumulate through the years. A child brings us back to innocence and glee- to the sheer joy of being alive. They return us to the best of our own childhood. In this spirit I would like to share a reading with you
Know you what it is to be a child? ... It is to have a spirit yet streaming from the waters of baptism;
It is to believe in love, to believe in loveliness,
to believe in belief; it is to be so little that the elves can reach to whisper in your ear;
It is to turn pumpkins into coaches, and mice into horses, lowness into loftiness, and nothing into everything, -
For each child has a fairy god-mother in his own soul; it is to live in a nutshell and count yourself the king of infinite space;
It is: to see the World in a grain of sand,
And a heaven in a wild flower,
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
And eternity in an hour.
At the very dawn of creation, God used his spirit to breathe life into the waters, making them the wellspring of life. Water is a symbol of purity, clarity, reflection, wisdom and transition. It refreshes us, cleanses us and rejuvenates us. (This line is optional) Jesus walked into the waters of the river Jordan and emerged anointed with spirit.
We will now use this gift of water to bless this child:
(Officiant pours Water over the child's head and says): I baptize you ______, as a child of God, a child of light and a child of humanity. (Or you may just say Child of God)
Our wish for you ____, is that the love that surrounds you today will wash over you like rain every day of your life, just as this water rains on you now…
Officiant rubs the blessed water on the top of his head and says:
You are connected, protected, loved, and blessed.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on his forehead and says:
All your senses are blessed, protected, and awakened.
Officiant rubs the blessed water over his heart and says:
Your heart is blessed so that you may feel compassion for yourself and others.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on both his hands and says:
Your hands are blessed so that you may reach out to the world.
Officiant rubs the blessed water on both his feet and says:
Your feet are blessed so that you may connect with the earth, be grounded, and stand your ground in this world. Know that your spirit is strong and it will guide you through this life.. Know that you are deeply loved and that your presence brings overwhelming joy.
May Gods illumination reside with you, now and forever. God’s peace be upon you.
Universal Baptism Option 2
~Short Version~
Adapted from Francis Thompson and William Blake
~Short Version~
Adapted from Francis Thompson and William Blake
Officiant:
Children are magical; A child brings us back to who we were before we are distracted by all the layers of baggage that we accumulate through the years. A child brings us back to innocence and glee- to the sheer joy of being alive. They return us to the best of our own childhood. In this spirit I would like to share a reading with you:
Know you what it is to be a child? ... It is to have a spirit yet streaming from the waters of baptism;
It is to turn pumpkins into coaches, and mice into horses, lowness into loftiness, and nothing into everything, -
For each child has a fairy god-mother in his own soul; it is to live in a nutshell and count yourself the king of infinite space;
It is: to see the World in a grain of sand,
And a heaven in a wild flower,
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
And eternity in an hour.
At the very dawn of creation, God used his spirit to breathe life into the waters, making them the wellspring of life.
We now use this gift of water to welcome this child into this world and in doing so we dedicate him to God.
(Officiant pours water gently over child's head and says) :
I baptize you _____as a child of God, as a child of light, and as a child of humanity.
Children are magical; A child brings us back to who we were before we are distracted by all the layers of baggage that we accumulate through the years. A child brings us back to innocence and glee- to the sheer joy of being alive. They return us to the best of our own childhood. In this spirit I would like to share a reading with you:
Know you what it is to be a child? ... It is to have a spirit yet streaming from the waters of baptism;
It is to turn pumpkins into coaches, and mice into horses, lowness into loftiness, and nothing into everything, -
For each child has a fairy god-mother in his own soul; it is to live in a nutshell and count yourself the king of infinite space;
It is: to see the World in a grain of sand,
And a heaven in a wild flower,
Hold infinity in the palm of your hand,
And eternity in an hour.
At the very dawn of creation, God used his spirit to breathe life into the waters, making them the wellspring of life.
We now use this gift of water to welcome this child into this world and in doing so we dedicate him to God.
(Officiant pours water gently over child's head and says) :
I baptize you _____as a child of God, as a child of light, and as a child of humanity.
Universal Baptism Option 3
~Dedication to God~
Adapted from Psalm 36 3-10 and Unity Rites Of Passage
~Dedication to God~
Adapted from Psalm 36 3-10 and Unity Rites Of Passage
~This is a very nice option for an interfaith Christian /Jewish Ceremony~
Officiant:
At the very dawn of creation, God used his spirit to breathe life into the waters, making them the wellspring of life. We will now use this gift of water to welcome this child into the world and in doing so we dedicate him to God.
How precious is your constant love O God.
We take shelter under your wings
We fest in the abundance of your house.
You gave us to drink from your stream of delights.
With you is the fountain of life.
In your light we are bathed in light.
(Officiant gently pours water over child's head and says): We baptize you as a child of God, as a child of light and as a child of humanity
Let us rejoice in this gift of new life.
Blessed be God forever. For God has blessed and chosen this child as God's very own
Officiant:
At the very dawn of creation, God used his spirit to breathe life into the waters, making them the wellspring of life. We will now use this gift of water to welcome this child into the world and in doing so we dedicate him to God.
How precious is your constant love O God.
We take shelter under your wings
We fest in the abundance of your house.
You gave us to drink from your stream of delights.
With you is the fountain of life.
In your light we are bathed in light.
(Officiant gently pours water over child's head and says): We baptize you as a child of God, as a child of light and as a child of humanity
Let us rejoice in this gift of new life.
Blessed be God forever. For God has blessed and chosen this child as God's very own
You may prefer a Rose Blessing:
*This blessing can be done instead of the water blessing OR you can do both. It is very beautiful to include both the water blessing and candle lighting and then close with this rose petal blessing.
Let's mix/match and tailor a ceremony to reflect your wishes!!
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The parents sit with baby on the ground or in their lap. As each person showers the baby with blessings and rose petals you are left with petals scattered all around the ground and on baby. This is always a beautiful photo!
Officiant:
Your presence at this celebration today is greatly appreciated. All of you are the most important people in the lives of ___ and ____. You are all among the greatest gifts that life has bestowed them. All of you are those that they can call family and friend. And because of this you have not only been invited here to share in their happiness and joy. (Parents of the Baby) also ask you to share in the blessing of their child, realizing that the more love this child receives, the more he/she will be able to give love to other. The more people make up her/his world, the richer his/her world will be.
(First person or persons, showers the baby with white rose petals)
Officiant: White represents purity, innocence, light, trust, and new beginnings. It represents positive energy.
Officiant to the person/persons with the white petals: Please sprinkle the white rose petals on (child’s name).
With the unfolding of each new transition in (child’s name) life, may her thoughts, emotions and spirit always be positive and pure.
(Second person, or group of people shower the baby with pink rose petals)
Officiant: Pink is a soft color that represents childhood play, unconditional love, nurturing and kindness.
Officiant to the person/persons with the pink petals: sprinkle the pink rose petals on (child’s name)
May _____ be blessed with a joyful childhood and experience the unconditional love of family and friends so that she may in turn spread the gifts of joy, love and kindness to all that she encounters in this world, making it a better place.
(Third person or group of people shower the baby with yellow rose petals)
Officiant: Yellow is an uplifting color that represents intellect, optimism and happiness.
Officiant to the person/persons with the yellow petals: Please sprinkle the yellow rose petals on (child’s name)
May ___ unique life be blessed with, intelligence, creativity, happiness, cheerfulness and fun. May she always have an enthusiasm for this wonderful journey of life.
(Fourth person or persons, showers the baby with red rose petals)
Officiant: Red is a warm and positive color associated with ambition, energy and passion. In many cultures red represents good luck.
Officiant to the person/persons with the re'd petals: sprinkle the red rose petals on (child’s name)
May ____ have a passionate spirit, full of determination and self-confidence. May she be courageous and strong. May good luck follow her in whatever she does.
(This part is optional; it may depend on how many guests you have, if you have a lot you may choose to include just immediate family)
I would like to now invite each of you to come up one by one. Please gather a few rose petals from the basket and gently sprinkle them upon the baby, along with your own personal blessings and good wishes for (child's name) for the many years to come.
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Candle Lighting
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Option 1 Religious/Christian (Adapted from Unitarian Rites of Passage, Traditional Irish blessing-Author unknown, writing of Rev Avary )
Officiant:
In Christian worship traditionally, the lighting of candles has many spiritual meanings. The light of candle represents the light of a person’s life. The flame represents the eternal truth of God. It is a reminder of our connection to source. The light shining forth represents God’s truth shining forth upon the world. For believers to collectively light a candle, represents the sharing and fellowship of faith; and traditionally represents the unity of the individual believers with Christ and the body of believers of Christianity, both in this world and in heaven.
I ask each Godparent and each parent to take one of the candles and light this candle. Then, together, light the center candle for _______, as the light of his/her life.
I ask that at the conclusion of this service, each of you keep your candle for this reason:
Should there be a time in _______’s future for which he/she faces difficult times of trial, or be called upon to make grave decisions – of hardship or joy, or become lost in spirit – you should, as the duty and obligation you have assumed today – find a quiet place alone to yourself. Light this candle or another and through pray ask for the safekeeping of ____ in both body and soul from our Heavenly Father, and the spiritual guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Option 2 Poem (Adapted from Rev Macomb's book Bless This child, Marianne Williamson A return to prayer, Unitarian rites of passage, Poem Author unknown)
Officiant:
I ask that the parents and godparents each take one of the candles and light it.
These candles symbolize hope and new life in the world.
Then, together, light the center candle for (Child’s name) as the light of his life.
May the blessing of light be with you always,
Light without and light within.
May the sun shine upon you and warm your heart
Until it grows like a great fire,
So that others may feel the warmth of it.
And may the light of your eyes shine like two candle lights
In a window at night bidding the wanderer
To come in out of the dark and cold.
And may the blessing of the rain be upon you.
The sweet and tender rain, may it fall upon your spirit,
As when flowers spring up and fragrance fills the air.
And may the blessings of the great rain wash you clean and fair,
And may the storms always leave you stronger and more beautiful.
And when the rains are over may there be clear pools of water
Made beautiful by the radiance of your light,
As when a star shines beautiful in the night,
Pointing the way for all of us.
Be fearless and pure; never waver in your determination
or your dedication to the spiritual life.
Give freely, be peaceful, sincere, truthful, loving and live life with an open heart.
Be compassionate and gentle, show good will to all.
God bless you _____ and welcome to the world.
Option 3 Combined: (Poem is from has been adapted from Celtic Blessings and Prayers, No Author's name is given. I though it was a lovely blessing to weave into the ceremony)
Officiant:
I ask that the parents and godparents each take one of the candles and light it.
These candles symbolize hope and new life in the world.
Then, together, light the center candle for ____, as the light of her life.
____, may the blessing of light be with you always,
Light without and light within.
May the sun shine upon you and warm your heart
Until it grows like a great fire,
So that others may feel the warmth of it.
And may the light of your eyes shine like two candle lights
In a window at night bidding the wanderer
To come in out of the dark and cold.
And may the blessings of God be upon you.
Be fearless and pure; give freely, be peaceful, sincere, truthful, loving and live life with an open heart.
Be compassionate and gentle, show good will to all.
I ask that at the conclusion of this service, each of you keep your candle for this reason:
Should there be a time in _______’s future for which he/she faces difficult times of trial, or be called upon to make grave decisions – of hardship or joy, or become lost in spirit – you should, as the duty and obligation you have assumed today – find a quiet place alone to yourself. Light this candle or another and through pray ask for the safekeeping of ____ in both body and soul from our Heavenly Father, and the spiritual guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Officiant:
In Christian worship traditionally, the lighting of candles has many spiritual meanings. The light of candle represents the light of a person’s life. The flame represents the eternal truth of God. It is a reminder of our connection to source. The light shining forth represents God’s truth shining forth upon the world. For believers to collectively light a candle, represents the sharing and fellowship of faith; and traditionally represents the unity of the individual believers with Christ and the body of believers of Christianity, both in this world and in heaven.
I ask each Godparent and each parent to take one of the candles and light this candle. Then, together, light the center candle for _______, as the light of his/her life.
I ask that at the conclusion of this service, each of you keep your candle for this reason:
Should there be a time in _______’s future for which he/she faces difficult times of trial, or be called upon to make grave decisions – of hardship or joy, or become lost in spirit – you should, as the duty and obligation you have assumed today – find a quiet place alone to yourself. Light this candle or another and through pray ask for the safekeeping of ____ in both body and soul from our Heavenly Father, and the spiritual guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Option 2 Poem (Adapted from Rev Macomb's book Bless This child, Marianne Williamson A return to prayer, Unitarian rites of passage, Poem Author unknown)
Officiant:
I ask that the parents and godparents each take one of the candles and light it.
These candles symbolize hope and new life in the world.
Then, together, light the center candle for (Child’s name) as the light of his life.
May the blessing of light be with you always,
Light without and light within.
May the sun shine upon you and warm your heart
Until it grows like a great fire,
So that others may feel the warmth of it.
And may the light of your eyes shine like two candle lights
In a window at night bidding the wanderer
To come in out of the dark and cold.
And may the blessing of the rain be upon you.
The sweet and tender rain, may it fall upon your spirit,
As when flowers spring up and fragrance fills the air.
And may the blessings of the great rain wash you clean and fair,
And may the storms always leave you stronger and more beautiful.
And when the rains are over may there be clear pools of water
Made beautiful by the radiance of your light,
As when a star shines beautiful in the night,
Pointing the way for all of us.
Be fearless and pure; never waver in your determination
or your dedication to the spiritual life.
Give freely, be peaceful, sincere, truthful, loving and live life with an open heart.
Be compassionate and gentle, show good will to all.
God bless you _____ and welcome to the world.
Option 3 Combined: (Poem is from has been adapted from Celtic Blessings and Prayers, No Author's name is given. I though it was a lovely blessing to weave into the ceremony)
Officiant:
I ask that the parents and godparents each take one of the candles and light it.
These candles symbolize hope and new life in the world.
Then, together, light the center candle for ____, as the light of her life.
____, may the blessing of light be with you always,
Light without and light within.
May the sun shine upon you and warm your heart
Until it grows like a great fire,
So that others may feel the warmth of it.
And may the light of your eyes shine like two candle lights
In a window at night bidding the wanderer
To come in out of the dark and cold.
And may the blessings of God be upon you.
Be fearless and pure; give freely, be peaceful, sincere, truthful, loving and live life with an open heart.
Be compassionate and gentle, show good will to all.
I ask that at the conclusion of this service, each of you keep your candle for this reason:
Should there be a time in _______’s future for which he/she faces difficult times of trial, or be called upon to make grave decisions – of hardship or joy, or become lost in spirit – you should, as the duty and obligation you have assumed today – find a quiet place alone to yourself. Light this candle or another and through pray ask for the safekeeping of ____ in both body and soul from our Heavenly Father, and the spiritual guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Closing Prayer
Prayers are adapted , in whole or part from Bless This Child, Unitarian rites of Passage,Illuminata A Return to Prayer, If an Author is given I have posted their name beside it)
Option 1
Heavenly Father We pray that _____ may learn to live a life of love.
May integrity and honesty be his/her virtue.
May he/she develop a strong self-esteem
May he/she always be merciful and act justly in all he/she does
May he/she show proper respect to everyone
May he/she always be strong and courageous in his/her action
We pray that you create in him/her a pure heart and let that purity be shown in his/her actions
We pray that faith will find root and grow in _____ heart, and your spirit will dwell in
him/her always. Amen
Option 2
Let us pray:
We thank you God, for the gift of this wonderful child.
We pray for the continued health of ___.
We pray for her to be strong in mind and body.
To grow steadily and sturdily in a home filled with joy and love.
We pray for her to become a person who greets the world with passion, courage, humility, wisdom and humor
We pray for the ability of ____ and ___to love, nurture, understand, provide for, and educate ____.
We pray for God to watch over us, our family, and our community. Amen
Option 3
God of love, bless (Child’s name) Surround her and her home with an ever-growing love. May she always be aware of your presence and your care in her life.
Option 4
Blessed be this child of God, whose very beginning is our own and in whom we see infinite potential.
Blessed be this child of love, who reflects the love of God. May he feel a spirit of kinship with all creation.
Blessed be this child of wisdom, whose ever-expanding mind will touch the fount of knowledge. May he learn to listen to the words and feelings of others, and to the voice of God in prayer, so that he will gain understanding.
Blessed be this child of eternity. May his path lead him to the highest pinnacles of life, love, joy and wisdom. May his life be long upon this earth. Amen.
Option 5 (prayer by Rabbi Harry Epstein)
____ may you be blessed beneath the wings of angles.
Be blessed with love, be blessed with peace
May you always have…
Enough happiness to keep you sweet
Enough trials to keep you strong
Enough hope to keep you happy
Enough failure to keep you humble
Enough success to keep you eager
Enough friends to give you comfort
Enough wealth to meet your needs
Enough enthusiasm to look forward
Enough faith to banish depression
Enough determination to make each day better than yesterday
And lest us all say: Amen
Option 6
_____, May you be blessed with the strength to face challenges with confidence..
Along with the wisdom to choose your battles carefully…
May you experience adventure on your journey and may you always stop to help
someone along the way…
Listen to your heart and take risks carefully…
And always remember how much you are loved…
Option 7 The Lords Prayer
One of the most significant Christian traditions is the saying of the Lord’s Prayer. It calls upon God in great faith, trust and confidence. Let us join together in this beautiful prayer:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy Name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those
who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory,
for ever and ever. Amen.
(The Lords prayer can said just as it is or tailored to end after "but deliver us from evil" )
Option 1
Heavenly Father We pray that _____ may learn to live a life of love.
May integrity and honesty be his/her virtue.
May he/she develop a strong self-esteem
May he/she always be merciful and act justly in all he/she does
May he/she show proper respect to everyone
May he/she always be strong and courageous in his/her action
We pray that you create in him/her a pure heart and let that purity be shown in his/her actions
We pray that faith will find root and grow in _____ heart, and your spirit will dwell in
him/her always. Amen
Option 2
Let us pray:
We thank you God, for the gift of this wonderful child.
We pray for the continued health of ___.
We pray for her to be strong in mind and body.
To grow steadily and sturdily in a home filled with joy and love.
We pray for her to become a person who greets the world with passion, courage, humility, wisdom and humor
We pray for the ability of ____ and ___to love, nurture, understand, provide for, and educate ____.
We pray for God to watch over us, our family, and our community. Amen
Option 3
God of love, bless (Child’s name) Surround her and her home with an ever-growing love. May she always be aware of your presence and your care in her life.
Option 4
Blessed be this child of God, whose very beginning is our own and in whom we see infinite potential.
Blessed be this child of love, who reflects the love of God. May he feel a spirit of kinship with all creation.
Blessed be this child of wisdom, whose ever-expanding mind will touch the fount of knowledge. May he learn to listen to the words and feelings of others, and to the voice of God in prayer, so that he will gain understanding.
Blessed be this child of eternity. May his path lead him to the highest pinnacles of life, love, joy and wisdom. May his life be long upon this earth. Amen.
Option 5 (prayer by Rabbi Harry Epstein)
____ may you be blessed beneath the wings of angles.
Be blessed with love, be blessed with peace
May you always have…
Enough happiness to keep you sweet
Enough trials to keep you strong
Enough hope to keep you happy
Enough failure to keep you humble
Enough success to keep you eager
Enough friends to give you comfort
Enough wealth to meet your needs
Enough enthusiasm to look forward
Enough faith to banish depression
Enough determination to make each day better than yesterday
And lest us all say: Amen
Option 6
_____, May you be blessed with the strength to face challenges with confidence..
Along with the wisdom to choose your battles carefully…
May you experience adventure on your journey and may you always stop to help
someone along the way…
Listen to your heart and take risks carefully…
And always remember how much you are loved…
Option 7 The Lords Prayer
One of the most significant Christian traditions is the saying of the Lord’s Prayer. It calls upon God in great faith, trust and confidence. Let us join together in this beautiful prayer:
Our Father, who art in heaven,
hallowed be thy Name,
thy kingdom come,
thy will be done,
on earth as it is in heaven.
Give us this day our daily bread.
And forgive us our trespasses,
as we forgive those
who trespass against us.
And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from evil.
For thine is the kingdom,
and the power, and the glory,
for ever and ever. Amen.
(The Lords prayer can said just as it is or tailored to end after "but deliver us from evil" )
Closing Words
The closing words are 3 part~ a send-off to the parents, a send-off to the child and a send-off to the guests. Below are choices for each of these.
~Closing words to parents:~
Option 1 (A prayer adapted from Rites of Passage by Marianne Williamson)
_____ and _____, I say on behalf of all of us, go in peace and build a strong and beautiful family life. Your wishes are rooted in truth, for we have prayed with you and joined our hearts with yours. Your prayers are our prayers, that you might have a home that is full of love and righteousness for you and your child. May he grow up to reflect the best in both of you, and extend unto the world he touches, the love he receives from his mother and father. Do not fear for God will guide you always. Do not despair, for he is ever there. The spirit of God is with you always, to guide you both and bless your child.
Option 2
Congratulations ____ and ____ on the birth of your beautiful daughter.
May her life be filled with the good things of life, and in particular with the love and laughter of those who make up her world.
Option 3
I congratulate (Parents of the Baby) on the birth of their baby, and the God Parents on their willingness to share with them the care and concern for the welfare of (Baby).
May her life be filled with the good things of life, and in particular with the love and laughter of those who make up her world.
~Closing words to child~:
Option 1
_____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
With abiding confidence and affection, we send you forth on your journey of life. May you be filled with thanks and wonder, humor and fun, hope and perseverance so that you may grow in wisdom and grace.
Option 2
And now (Child's name) may the grace of Christ attend you, the love of God surrounds you, and the Holy Spirit keep you. Amen.
Option 3
Dear____, with all our hopes and dreams for your future, we celebrate your being.
May you always feel the love that surrounds you.
May your days be filled with wonder and your nights be gentle.
May your years on this earth be blessed with strength, health and wisdom.
May the love you are be the power forever guiding your light on this earth.
Option 4
May all the blessing of our Lord touch your life today.
May He send His little angels to protect you on your way.
Such a miraculous gift, sent from above.
Someone so precious to cherish and love.
May sunshine and moonbeams dance over your head.
As you quietly slumber in your bed.
May good luck be with you wherever you go.
And your blessings outnumber the shamrocks that grow.
Option 5
May you be blessed with the strength to face challenges with confidence..
Along with the wisdom to choose your battles carefully…
May you experience adventure on your journey and may you always stop to help
someone along the way…
Listen to your heart and take risks carefully…
And always remember how much you are loved…
Option 6
Dear Little One, we welcome you with love,
And ask for these Blessings to flow from Above,
As you go on your journey live life well every day,
Be mindful of these Blessings gently guiding your way.
~Closing words to guests~:
Option 1
May God’s blessings rest upon you, may his peace abide with you, and may his presence illuminate your hearts now and forever more. Go in peace. Amen
Option 2
Thank you all for being with us today to bless and welcome ___. Let the memory of this day fill us with love and family. Go in peace.
Option 3
Friends and family We thank you for your presence here today you are a gift in this families life, as (child’s name) is a gift. These are gifts for we are most thankful for. Go in peace.
~Close with a beautiful Rose Blessing ~ (Adapted from Unitarian Rites of passage and Bless This Child by Rev Macomb)
*Use this single simple rose petal blessing or the one posted above with the different colored petals**
Rose petals represent life's blessings of beauty, poetry and love. The parents sit with baby in lap, as each person showers the baby with blessings and rose petals you are left with petals scatter all around the ground and on baby, making for a beautiful ending and nice photo.
Officiant:
This child has been blessed, welcomed and dedicated to God.
His Godparents have been appointed.
As Officiant sprinkles rose petals on child she says:
(Child's name) may you be blessed beneath the wings of angles. Be blessed with love, be blessed with peace.
We now invite each of you to come up one by one. Please gather a few rose petals from the basket and gently sprinkle them upon the baby, along with your own personal blessings and good wishes for (child's name) for the many years to come.
Congratulations!
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~Close with a Family Circle~
Officiant will ask the godparents, and all the family members (grandparents, siblings aunts, uncles etc…and if it’s a small gathering lets include the guests).
Please join hands and with your hands and your hearts. I would like to share a passage from “All My Relations” by Mark Self
Within my hand I hold my brother, father, grandfather, sister mother and grandmother
Within my hand I hold the true spirit of giving
Within my hand I hold knowledge of past and future
Within my hand I hold the selflessness of sacrifice
Within my hand I hold the hopes and prayers of life
Within my hand I hold all my relations.
Look well at one another. You are all interconnected. This circle of family symbolizes the circle of life, and with each new birth the circle becomes stronger
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See Add-Ons for Acknowledging Siblings, Presenting child with The Gift Of A Rose (good for older child) Support of Guests, Tree Planting Ceremony.
You may prefer a Traditional Baptism in the name of Jesus Christ
Resources: Many of the poems and blessings have been adapted (in whole or part) from:
The Holy Bible
Pastor April Gismondi of Church of Ancient Ways LI NY churchofancientways.org
Bless This Child: by Rev. Susanna Macomb and Andrea Thompson
Illuminate: A return to prayer by Marianna Williamson
Unitarian rites of passage manual
Presbyterian rites of passage manual
The Book of Common Prayer
America Association of Wedding Officiants (An interfaith group of Reverends, Rabbi's and Celebrants)
Rev. Avary
Rev. Andrea Purtell
Baby blessing and baptism certificate from www.this joyous.com
The Holy Bible
Pastor April Gismondi of Church of Ancient Ways LI NY churchofancientways.org
Bless This Child: by Rev. Susanna Macomb and Andrea Thompson
Illuminate: A return to prayer by Marianna Williamson
Unitarian rites of passage manual
Presbyterian rites of passage manual
The Book of Common Prayer
America Association of Wedding Officiants (An interfaith group of Reverends, Rabbi's and Celebrants)
Rev. Avary
Rev. Andrea Purtell
Baby blessing and baptism certificate from www.this joyous.com
