Interfaith Baby Blessing
Jewish And Christian Traditions
Example of my Interfaith Ceremony using traditions from the Jewish Faith and the Christian Faith.
You may choose this ceremony just as it is written, or use my unique Build Your Ceremony Menu to customize it to your wishes.
Keep in mind all wording can be mix/matched and tailored to you liking.
Greeting:
Officiant:
Welcome friends and family! 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.
On behalf of _____ and ___ I would like to thank you all for joining them on this joyous Occasion.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.
(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.
Officiant:
Welcome friends and family! 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.
On behalf of _____ and ___ I would like to thank you all for joining them on this joyous Occasion.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.
(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.
Moment of Remembrance
Officiant:
This event is shared, if in a different way, by those who have passed beyond this life. Their roles in the lives of ___ and _____ are gratefully remembered. They acknowledge and honor the bloodlines, the history and the people who have all gone into the creation of _____. They remember what it felt to be with these loved ones, and that through shared memories _____ may come to know her ancestors and the lineage that is her birthright.
***Would you like to include The Mourners Kaddish? Click here to see wording
Invocation (this is the beginning blessing on this service that is about to begin):
In the Jewish tradition, there is a very special prayer that is said upon reaching a joyous occasion, called the Shehechyanu. The Shehechyanu is said when a baby is born, when a baby learns to walk, upon celebrating religious and educational milestones, the scared bond of marriage, as well as important holiday celebrations.
The Shehechyanu expresses our gratitude for being able to be with the parents and celebrate their new baby
Blessed are you, creator of the universe, who has given us life, sustained us, and permitted us to celebrate this joyous occasion.
(A Parent or other relative may repeat in Hebrew):“Baruch ata Adonai elohenu melech haolam Shehecheyanu Vekeeyamanu Vehigeeyanu Lazman Hazeh.”
Officiant:
This event is shared, if in a different way, by those who have passed beyond this life. Their roles in the lives of ___ and _____ are gratefully remembered. They acknowledge and honor the bloodlines, the history and the people who have all gone into the creation of _____. They remember what it felt to be with these loved ones, and that through shared memories _____ may come to know her ancestors and the lineage that is her birthright.
***Would you like to include The Mourners Kaddish? Click here to see wording
Invocation (this is the beginning blessing on this service that is about to begin):
In the Jewish tradition, there is a very special prayer that is said upon reaching a joyous occasion, called the Shehechyanu. The Shehechyanu is said when a baby is born, when a baby learns to walk, upon celebrating religious and educational milestones, the scared bond of marriage, as well as important holiday celebrations.
The Shehechyanu expresses our gratitude for being able to be with the parents and celebrate their new baby
Blessed are you, creator of the universe, who has given us life, sustained us, and permitted us to celebrate this joyous occasion.
(A Parent or other relative may repeat in Hebrew):“Baruch ata Adonai elohenu melech haolam Shehecheyanu Vekeeyamanu Vehigeeyanu Lazman Hazeh.”
Dedication of the Name
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.’
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. 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 or Mother: We have chosen the name _____ (First and Middle name) and if you like you can explain the meaning of the child's name.
Father or Mother : We have also chosen the name (Child's Hebrew name) _____, to signify ___ (Father will explain the Hebrew meaning of her name)
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.
Charge to Parents
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
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.’
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. 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 or Mother: We have chosen the name _____ (First and Middle name) and if you like you can explain the meaning of the child's name.
Father or Mother : We have also chosen the name (Child's Hebrew name) _____, to signify ___ (Father will explain the Hebrew meaning of her name)
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.
Charge to Parents
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
Charge to Godparents
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 his life as someone who he knows will always be standing quietly behind him, encouraging him to make good choices, and sharing with him 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:
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 his life as someone who he knows will always be standing quietly behind him, encouraging him to make good choices, and sharing with him 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.
Acknowledgement of Grandparents (This is Optional)
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 (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.
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 (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.
The Blessing of the Child *** If you prefer this blessing can be done without water, instead Officiant can lightly touch the top of the baby’s head
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. We will now use this gift of water to bless this child:
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:
We bless you as a child of God. 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.
Candle lighting:
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.
The light shining forth represents God’s truth shining forth upon the world.
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.
J_____, 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.
The light shining forth represents God’s truth shining forth upon the world.
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.
J_____, 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
This is a good place to add a poem or reading by family member, guest or Officiant.
Prayer of Gratitude:
Officiant:
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, thank you for bringing___ into this world, into our lives. Thank you for blessing this child and blessing us all with your presence here today. Thank you for bringing this family together to welcome_____ to our community in love. Help us to live in your light and integrity every day, so that we may be good role models for ____ and all our children. Watch over us so that we may all get home safely today. Amen
Closing words:
Officiant to Parents:
____ 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 she grow up to reflect the best in both of you, and extend unto the world she touches, the love she 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.
Officiant to child:
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.
Officiant to guests
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
Officiant:
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, thank you for bringing___ into this world, into our lives. Thank you for blessing this child and blessing us all with your presence here today. Thank you for bringing this family together to welcome_____ to our community in love. Help us to live in your light and integrity every day, so that we may be good role models for ____ and all our children. Watch over us so that we may all get home safely today. Amen
Closing words:
Officiant to Parents:
____ 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 she grow up to reflect the best in both of you, and extend unto the world she touches, the love she 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.
Officiant to child:
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.
Officiant to guests
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
