Baby Blessing Ceremony
For More Information Please Visit My Baby Blessing Website
It is truly an honor to officiate such a joyous occasion!
The cost of a baby blessing is $285.
This package includes an in-person or telephone consultation and unlimited email. A keepsake copy of the ceremony, as well as a keepsake certificate. Travel of 40 miles round trip from Point Pleasant Beach is also included. A minimal mileage fee would apply after that.
Having your own Baby Blessing, Naming, Welcoming or, Glistening, Ceremony is so great because you may create exactly how you want it.They can be religious or non-religious. I am happy to incorporate any interfaith/spiritual customs that you would like.Many people have them in their homes (easiest for infants), a restaurant, or even a beautiful park or beach.
Most ceremonies follow a certain flow of element (just like a wedding ceremony)
They are:
Ceremonies may include Grandparents, siblings or other special people. We can include your favorite readings, poems or spiritual traditions.
Below I have listed some blessing options. Below them I have many examples of ceremonies. I also have a separate page of Collections of Poems and Readings for Baby Blessings that I have gathered.
These ceremonies and examples do not need to be chosen in whole. We can “mix and match” using the wording and elements that you like best and create your child’s own special ceremony. If you do not see what you are looking for here please ask, I am sure I can help.
The cost of a baby blessing is $285.
This package includes an in-person or telephone consultation and unlimited email. A keepsake copy of the ceremony, as well as a keepsake certificate. Travel of 40 miles round trip from Point Pleasant Beach is also included. A minimal mileage fee would apply after that.
Having your own Baby Blessing, Naming, Welcoming or, Glistening, Ceremony is so great because you may create exactly how you want it.They can be religious or non-religious. I am happy to incorporate any interfaith/spiritual customs that you would like.Many people have them in their homes (easiest for infants), a restaurant, or even a beautiful park or beach.
Most ceremonies follow a certain flow of element (just like a wedding ceremony)
They are:
- Greeting
- Invocation/prayer, or if non-religious an opening poem
- Charge to the parents
- Parental promise
- Charge to Godparents
- Declaration of baby’s name and its significance
- Responsibility of the Godparents
- Water, Oil, or Rose ceremony
- Candle lighting or other element such as poem etc..
- Closing prayer or blessing
Ceremonies may include Grandparents, siblings or other special people. We can include your favorite readings, poems or spiritual traditions.
Below I have listed some blessing options. Below them I have many examples of ceremonies. I also have a separate page of Collections of Poems and Readings for Baby Blessings that I have gathered.
These ceremonies and examples do not need to be chosen in whole. We can “mix and match” using the wording and elements that you like best and create your child’s own special ceremony. If you do not see what you are looking for here please ask, I am sure I can help.
~Blessing Options~
Option 1: Blessing with water/oil/or rose petals in water
All wording can be changed to fit your desires. You may use water/oil or just lightly touch baby on areas as you speak your wishes/blessings for him/her
The Blessing of the Child
(I will address the new baby and I will use the blessed water with roses to bless the top of her/his head, her/his forehead, her/his heart, both her/his hands and both her/his feet)
I rub the blessed water on the top of her/his head and say:
You are connected, protected, loved, and blessed.
I rub the blessed water on her/his forehead and say:
All your senses are blessed, protected, and awakened.
I rub the blessed water over her heart and say:
Your heart is blessed so that you may feel compassion for yourself and others.
I rub the blessed water on both her/his hands and say:
Your hands are blessed so that you may reach out to the world.
I rub the blessed water on both her/his feet and say:
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.
***Read a poem at this point***
Option 1: Blessing with water/oil/or rose petals in water
All wording can be changed to fit your desires. You may use water/oil or just lightly touch baby on areas as you speak your wishes/blessings for him/her
The Blessing of the Child
(I will address the new baby and I will use the blessed water with roses to bless the top of her/his head, her/his forehead, her/his heart, both her/his hands and both her/his feet)
I rub the blessed water on the top of her/his head and say:
You are connected, protected, loved, and blessed.
I rub the blessed water on her/his forehead and say:
All your senses are blessed, protected, and awakened.
I rub the blessed water over her heart and say:
Your heart is blessed so that you may feel compassion for yourself and others.
I rub the blessed water on both her/his hands and say:
Your hands are blessed so that you may reach out to the world.
I rub the blessed water on both her/his feet and say:
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.
***Read a poem at this point***
~Option 2: with white, yellow, pink, and red rose petals~
*****All wording can be changed to fit your desires. If you prefer rose petals can be sprinkled by parents or officiant (or whomever you choose)-or choose no rose petals- just incorporate the wording read by parents, officiant or family/friends as wishes for the baby.
Friends and Family of (Baby). (Parents of the Baby) have invited us today to take part in a ceremony which welcomes their baby into their family unit, and into the wider family of their relatives and friends.
And while the birth of their baby has meant great joy for them, this joy is not unmixed. The responsibility of this child's life and happiness is in their hands. From now on, much of their life will involve caring for their baby, guiding her development, nurturing her growth as a responsible human being.
Just as they have invited you here to share their happiness and their joy, so (Parents of the Baby) also ask you to share their responsibility, realizing that the more love this child receives, the more she will be able to give love to other. The more people make up her world, the richer her world will be.
First person showers the baby with white rose petals)
Officiant:
As the petals of the white rose symbolize innocence, may (Baby's) ideals and heart remain untarnished and ever pure, with the wonders of childhood innocence forever hers.
(Second person showers the baby with yellow rose petals)
Officiant:
May the petals of the yellow rose foreshadow the friends and the friendships, steadfast and unwavering, that will bless her in the years ahead.
(Third person showers the baby with pink rose petals)
Officiant:
The pink rose and her petals speak of the tender love and compassion her spirit will know. The love that knows no bounds.
(Fourth person showers the baby with red rose petals)
Officiant:
And as always, may the passion of the red rose forever kindle the fire in her heart for both life itself and for all the passions she will find there.
Baby's Mother:
May you know blessings in your life that your father and I have had in ours.
Baby's Father:
Friends and family, please welcome our daughter (Baby)
Parents:
To this child, as to all children, we make these pledges - We will recognize your worth as a person, and help you to strengthen your sense of belonging to the human family.
We will give you our love so that you may grow with trust in yourself and in other people.
We will respect your right to be yourself and at the same time help you to understand the rights of others.
We will encourage you always to search for the truth. We will give you the opportunity to develop your own understanding of life, and a respect for all living beings
~Option 3 : Water ceremony~
Water Ceremony
“Water has long been considered by many as the source of life…. Water is in and around all of us, and is also a symbol of the human spirit--- always in motion, never ceasing, only taking new forms….. Every element needs water to grow and thrive, to even survive. The trees and flowers, the fish and the birds, and all of us…….. Water nourishes us, cleanses us, comforts us, and renews us.
So…..Because we believe and know in our hearts that baby’s name made his way onto this earth as a pure, innocent, and perfect soul, this ceremony is not intended to cleanse him from sin. It is instead to celebrate his life, and to signify our intentions to nourish his heart, his mind, his body, and his spirit…. to allow his life to flow in the direction he chooses each day, with the love and guidance of family and friends to help him find his way.
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 sprinkles water over the child’s head
The love of your parents,
officiant sprinkles water over the child’s head
The love of your brother, ____(add if they have sibling)
officiant sprinkles water over the child’s head
and the love of all your family, friends, and loved ones, whether near or far,
officiant sprinkles water over the child’s head
may love be all you know from this day forward.”
You may prefer no hands on blessing, just a simple ceremony of prayers, poems and readings. Perhaps you would like to end it with a butterfly release
Wording for butterfly release:
Officiant:
I congratulate ___and ____ on the birth of ________ and the guardians on their willingness to share with them the care and concern for the welfare of ______.
In a moment we will release butterflies as a symbolic gesture of Joy and Happiness to _____.
According to an American Indian Legend, if anyone desires a wish to come true they must first capture a butterfly and whisper that wish to it. By making a wish and giving the butterfly its freedom, the wish will be taken to the heavens and be granted.
As we release these butterflies, whisper your wish for ______, and
that the butterfly will carry your wish to the Heavens – from where all blessings flow..
~release butterflies~ End of ceremony
*************************************************************************************************************************************************
*****All wording can be changed to fit your desires. If you prefer rose petals can be sprinkled by parents or officiant (or whomever you choose)-or choose no rose petals- just incorporate the wording read by parents, officiant or family/friends as wishes for the baby.
Friends and Family of (Baby). (Parents of the Baby) have invited us today to take part in a ceremony which welcomes their baby into their family unit, and into the wider family of their relatives and friends.
And while the birth of their baby has meant great joy for them, this joy is not unmixed. The responsibility of this child's life and happiness is in their hands. From now on, much of their life will involve caring for their baby, guiding her development, nurturing her growth as a responsible human being.
Just as they have invited you here to share their happiness and their joy, so (Parents of the Baby) also ask you to share their responsibility, realizing that the more love this child receives, the more she will be able to give love to other. The more people make up her world, the richer her world will be.
First person showers the baby with white rose petals)
Officiant:
As the petals of the white rose symbolize innocence, may (Baby's) ideals and heart remain untarnished and ever pure, with the wonders of childhood innocence forever hers.
(Second person showers the baby with yellow rose petals)
Officiant:
May the petals of the yellow rose foreshadow the friends and the friendships, steadfast and unwavering, that will bless her in the years ahead.
(Third person showers the baby with pink rose petals)
Officiant:
The pink rose and her petals speak of the tender love and compassion her spirit will know. The love that knows no bounds.
(Fourth person showers the baby with red rose petals)
Officiant:
And as always, may the passion of the red rose forever kindle the fire in her heart for both life itself and for all the passions she will find there.
Baby's Mother:
May you know blessings in your life that your father and I have had in ours.
Baby's Father:
Friends and family, please welcome our daughter (Baby)
Parents:
To this child, as to all children, we make these pledges - We will recognize your worth as a person, and help you to strengthen your sense of belonging to the human family.
We will give you our love so that you may grow with trust in yourself and in other people.
We will respect your right to be yourself and at the same time help you to understand the rights of others.
We will encourage you always to search for the truth. We will give you the opportunity to develop your own understanding of life, and a respect for all living beings
~Option 3 : Water ceremony~
Water Ceremony
“Water has long been considered by many as the source of life…. Water is in and around all of us, and is also a symbol of the human spirit--- always in motion, never ceasing, only taking new forms….. Every element needs water to grow and thrive, to even survive. The trees and flowers, the fish and the birds, and all of us…….. Water nourishes us, cleanses us, comforts us, and renews us.
So…..Because we believe and know in our hearts that baby’s name made his way onto this earth as a pure, innocent, and perfect soul, this ceremony is not intended to cleanse him from sin. It is instead to celebrate his life, and to signify our intentions to nourish his heart, his mind, his body, and his spirit…. to allow his life to flow in the direction he chooses each day, with the love and guidance of family and friends to help him find his way.
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 sprinkles water over the child’s head
The love of your parents,
officiant sprinkles water over the child’s head
The love of your brother, ____(add if they have sibling)
officiant sprinkles water over the child’s head
and the love of all your family, friends, and loved ones, whether near or far,
officiant sprinkles water over the child’s head
may love be all you know from this day forward.”
You may prefer no hands on blessing, just a simple ceremony of prayers, poems and readings. Perhaps you would like to end it with a butterfly release
Wording for butterfly release:
Officiant:
I congratulate ___and ____ on the birth of ________ and the guardians on their willingness to share with them the care and concern for the welfare of ______.
In a moment we will release butterflies as a symbolic gesture of Joy and Happiness to _____.
According to an American Indian Legend, if anyone desires a wish to come true they must first capture a butterfly and whisper that wish to it. By making a wish and giving the butterfly its freedom, the wish will be taken to the heavens and be granted.
As we release these butterflies, whisper your wish for ______, and
that the butterfly will carry your wish to the Heavens – from where all blessings flow..
~release butterflies~ End of ceremony
*************************************************************************************************************************************************
Below is a sample of a traditional baby blessing.
Any elements can be changed to fit your desires. I would love to work with you to create the ceremony you would like. It can be religious, spiritual or non-religious.
~Baby Blessing with Candle Ceremony~
Honoring a sibling
Remembering those who have passed
Honoring the grandparents
Altar is set up in the center of the room. A small bowl of blessed water with rose petals in it, is sitting in the center (it has been blessed prior to the ceremony) Six white candles are placed on the table One represents the baby, 2 represent the parents, 2 represent the godparents (or grandparents whatever tradition you have chosen) A source candle that represents God , this candle is for members to light the ceremony candles from. You may choose to include other mementoes on alter such as family photos, flowers, anything of special meaning to the family.
Ceremony begins with Officiant, parents holding their beautiful new baby and godparents/grandparents (whatever the parents have chosen) standing at the altar. Soft music in background may be played while guests arrive.
Greeting
Officiant:
Welcome friends and family! Today is a very joyous day for all of us. It is a day in which we celebrate the birth of this child __________ who has been sent to us by God. This child is a piece of God that was given to the earth to make this world a little better, a little more interesting. This child is our future and represents the light of the world. __________ & __________ have honored all of you today by inviting you to not only witness this beautiful welcoming ceremony, but most importantly, to participate in the blessing of this child.
Any elements can be changed to fit your desires. I would love to work with you to create the ceremony you would like. It can be religious, spiritual or non-religious.
~Baby Blessing with Candle Ceremony~
- Greeting
- Invocation/prayer
- Charge to the parents
- Parental promise
- Charge to Godparents
- Declaration of baby’s name and its significance
- Responsibility of the Godparents
- Water ceremony; Oil ceremony
- Candle lighting
- Closing prayer or blessing
Honoring a sibling
Remembering those who have passed
Honoring the grandparents
Altar is set up in the center of the room. A small bowl of blessed water with rose petals in it, is sitting in the center (it has been blessed prior to the ceremony) Six white candles are placed on the table One represents the baby, 2 represent the parents, 2 represent the godparents (or grandparents whatever tradition you have chosen) A source candle that represents God , this candle is for members to light the ceremony candles from. You may choose to include other mementoes on alter such as family photos, flowers, anything of special meaning to the family.
Ceremony begins with Officiant, parents holding their beautiful new baby and godparents/grandparents (whatever the parents have chosen) standing at the altar. Soft music in background may be played while guests arrive.
Greeting
Officiant:
Welcome friends and family! Today is a very joyous day for all of us. It is a day in which we celebrate the birth of this child __________ who has been sent to us by God. This child is a piece of God that was given to the earth to make this world a little better, a little more interesting. This child is our future and represents the light of the world. __________ & __________ have honored all of you today by inviting you to not only witness this beautiful welcoming ceremony, but most importantly, to participate in the blessing of this child.
Invocation (This is the beginning prayer to “invoke” or ask God to be present and bless this service that is about to begin).
Officiant:
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.
Charge to Parents:
Officiant:
___________ has honored you by choosing you as her/his parents. Therefore, honor him/her and remember that ___________ is his/her own being with his/her own thoughts and feelings. She/He is a child of the universe and has been given many gifts from the Divine so that she/he can light the way for the future. Therefore, it is important for you to support him/her and protect him/her, so that his/her gifts may blossom and she/he can make this world better than it was before.
Parental Promise:
Officiant:
__________ & __________, will you promise to love, nurture, and support __________, and to create a healthy environment so that she/her may grow on his/her specific path? If so, please answer “We will.”
Parents: We will
Charge to Godparents:
Officiant:
__________ and______, as Godparents to _______, God will give you the wisdom and ability to hold within your heart forever his/her 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? If so please answer “we do”
God Parents: “We do.”
Do you promise to love, honor, support and encourage ____ throughout his/her life?
Godparents: “We do.”
Christening of Name:
Officiant: To parents
What name have you chosen for your child?
Parents answer: _____________
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.
The Blessing of the Child
(I will address the new baby and I will use the blessed water with roses to bless the top of her/his head, her/his forehead, her/his heart, both her/his hands and both her/his feet)
I rub the blessed water on the top of her/his head and say:
You are connected, protected, loved, and blessed.
I rub the blessed water on her/his forehead and say:
All your senses are blessed, protected, and awakened.
I rub the blessed water over her heart and say:
Your heart is blessed so that you may feel compassion for yourself and others.
I rub the blessed water on both her/his hands and say:
Your hands are blessed so that you may reach out to the world.
I rub the blessed water on both her/his feet and say:
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 have angels to watch over you and that you are never alone. Know that you
are deeply loved and that your presence brings overwhelming joy.
Poem :( Read by a Grandparent or Godparent)
Speak to Us of Children (by Kahil Gibran)
Your children are not your children
They are the sons and daughters of life’s longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you.
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
Which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterdays.
You are bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer seeks the mark upon the path of the infinite,
And he bends you with His might that His arrow may go swift and far.
Let your blending in the archer’s hand be for goodness.
For even as He loves the arrow that flies,
So He loves the bow that is stable.
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. 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.
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
Benediction:
“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.
To the 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
******************************************************************************************************************************************************
~ Non-Religious Baby Blessing with Water/or Rose Petals ~
Greeting
Invocation/Blessing
Charge to the parents
Parental promise
Charge to Godparents
Declaration of baby’s name and its significance
Responsibility of the Godparents
Water ceremony/(or you may choose oil/rose petals
Closing blessing
*****If you like after the Parental Promise you may add any of these elements:
Honoring a sibling
Remembering those who have passed
Honoring the grandparents
Alter is set up in the center of the room. A small bowl of blessed water with rose petals in it, is sitting in the center (it has been blessed prior to the ceremony) You may choose to include other mementoes on alter such as family photos, flowers, anything of special meaning to the family.
Ceremony begins with Officiant, parents holding their beautiful new baby and godparents/grandparents (whatever the parents have chosen) standing at the altar. Soft music in background may be played while guests arrive
Greeting
Officiant:
Welcome friends and family! Today is a very special day for all of us. It is a day in which we celebrate the birth of this child _________ .
What you are all about to witness here today is truly a celebration of love, and of life! As _____ is here today, she is new and perfect, with no need of fixing nor cleansing. She is a gift. Her smile, her laughter, and her presence enrich the lives of all who know her. Only half way through her first year here, ___months old, and already she has made the world a better place.
This child is our future and represents the light of the world. __________ & __________ have honored all of you today by inviting you to not only witness this beautiful welcoming ceremony, but most importantly, to participate in the blessing of this child.
Invocation (This is the beginning blessing on this service that is about to begin)
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.’
Today we simply give thanks and celebrate all the many wonderful blessings _____ brings and do our best to remember, and be thankful for, the very special role that we all have in her life.
Charge to Parents:
Officiant:
___________ has honored you by choosing you as her/his parents. Therefore, honor him/her and remember that ___________ is his/her own being with his/her own thoughts and feelings. She/He is a child of the universe and has been given many gifts from the Divine so that she/he can light the way for the future. Therefore, it is important for you to support him/her and protect him/her, so that his/her gifts may blossom and she/he can make this world better than it was before.
Parental Promise:
Officiant:
_________ & __________, will you promise to love, nurture, and support __________, and to create a healthy environment so that she/her may grow on his/her specific path? If so, please answer “We will.”
Parents: We will
Charge to Godparents:
Officiant:
The Godparents Vows:
It is often mistakenly thought that the Godparents are the ones who shall raise a child in the event that the parents cannot. But this is not so. 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.
Godparents come forward
“While you are not _____’s parents the place that you have both taken in her life is an
important one. ______and ____ trust your motivations and your judgment completely and they take comfort in knowing that although there will be times when _____ cannot come to them, that she will always be able to come to you for guidance and support. By accepting the role of Godparent you say to _____ and the world. I promise, I will be there for you as you grow into womanhood. With this in mind I now ask you...
Will you as best as you can, help take care of _____?
To protect her at all times from harm?
To encourage, guide and support her in all her endeavors,
Help her recognize the beauty within herself and all things,
And to become someday not the woman we wish for her but the realization of her own hopes, dreams and the fulfillment of her soul?”
Godparents: “We will.”
“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..”
Christening of Name:
Officiant: To parents
What name have you chosen for your child?
Father : We have chosen the name ______,
to signify the gentle beauty her presence offers our world.(whatever the meaning of the childs name is
Mother “We have also chosen the name _____, to represent the (whatever the meaning of her
The Blessing of the Child
(I will address the new baby and I will use the blessed water with roses to bless the top of her/his head, her/his forehead, her/his heart, both her/his hands and both her/his feet)
I rub the blessed water on the top of her/his head and say:
You are connected, protected, loved, and blessed.
I rub the blessed water on her/his forehead and say:
All your senses are blessed, protected, and awakened.
I rub the blessed water over her heart and say:
Your heart is blessed so that you may feel compassion for yourself and others.
I rub the blessed water on both her/his hands and say:
Your hands are blessed so that you may reach out to the world.
I rub the blessed water on both her/his feet and say:
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.
Poem :( Read by a Grandparent or Godparent)
Speak to Us of Children (by Kahil Gibran)
Your children are not your children
They are the sons and daughters of life’s longing for itself
They come through you but not from you.
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
Which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterdays.
You are bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer seeks the mark upon the path of the infinite,
And he bends you with His might that His arrow may go swift and far.
Let your blending in the archer’s hand be for goodness.
For even as He loves the arrow that flies,
So He loves the bow that is stable.
Final blessing
Officiant:
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.
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.
****************************************************************************************************************************************************
Greeting
Invocation/Blessing
Charge to the parents
Parental promise
Charge to Godparents
Declaration of baby’s name and its significance
Responsibility of the Godparents
Water ceremony/(or you may choose oil/rose petals
Closing blessing
*****If you like after the Parental Promise you may add any of these elements:
Honoring a sibling
Remembering those who have passed
Honoring the grandparents
Alter is set up in the center of the room. A small bowl of blessed water with rose petals in it, is sitting in the center (it has been blessed prior to the ceremony) You may choose to include other mementoes on alter such as family photos, flowers, anything of special meaning to the family.
Ceremony begins with Officiant, parents holding their beautiful new baby and godparents/grandparents (whatever the parents have chosen) standing at the altar. Soft music in background may be played while guests arrive
Greeting
Officiant:
Welcome friends and family! Today is a very special day for all of us. It is a day in which we celebrate the birth of this child _________ .
What you are all about to witness here today is truly a celebration of love, and of life! As _____ is here today, she is new and perfect, with no need of fixing nor cleansing. She is a gift. Her smile, her laughter, and her presence enrich the lives of all who know her. Only half way through her first year here, ___months old, and already she has made the world a better place.
This child is our future and represents the light of the world. __________ & __________ have honored all of you today by inviting you to not only witness this beautiful welcoming ceremony, but most importantly, to participate in the blessing of this child.
Invocation (This is the beginning blessing on this service that is about to begin)
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.’
Today we simply give thanks and celebrate all the many wonderful blessings _____ brings and do our best to remember, and be thankful for, the very special role that we all have in her life.
Charge to Parents:
Officiant:
___________ has honored you by choosing you as her/his parents. Therefore, honor him/her and remember that ___________ is his/her own being with his/her own thoughts and feelings. She/He is a child of the universe and has been given many gifts from the Divine so that she/he can light the way for the future. Therefore, it is important for you to support him/her and protect him/her, so that his/her gifts may blossom and she/he can make this world better than it was before.
Parental Promise:
Officiant:
_________ & __________, will you promise to love, nurture, and support __________, and to create a healthy environment so that she/her may grow on his/her specific path? If so, please answer “We will.”
Parents: We will
Charge to Godparents:
Officiant:
The Godparents Vows:
It is often mistakenly thought that the Godparents are the ones who shall raise a child in the event that the parents cannot. But this is not so. 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.
Godparents come forward
“While you are not _____’s parents the place that you have both taken in her life is an
important one. ______and ____ trust your motivations and your judgment completely and they take comfort in knowing that although there will be times when _____ cannot come to them, that she will always be able to come to you for guidance and support. By accepting the role of Godparent you say to _____ and the world. I promise, I will be there for you as you grow into womanhood. With this in mind I now ask you...
Will you as best as you can, help take care of _____?
To protect her at all times from harm?
To encourage, guide and support her in all her endeavors,
Help her recognize the beauty within herself and all things,
And to become someday not the woman we wish for her but the realization of her own hopes, dreams and the fulfillment of her soul?”
Godparents: “We will.”
“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..”
Christening of Name:
Officiant: To parents
What name have you chosen for your child?
Father : We have chosen the name ______,
to signify the gentle beauty her presence offers our world.(whatever the meaning of the childs name is
Mother “We have also chosen the name _____, to represent the (whatever the meaning of her
The Blessing of the Child
(I will address the new baby and I will use the blessed water with roses to bless the top of her/his head, her/his forehead, her/his heart, both her/his hands and both her/his feet)
I rub the blessed water on the top of her/his head and say:
You are connected, protected, loved, and blessed.
I rub the blessed water on her/his forehead and say:
All your senses are blessed, protected, and awakened.
I rub the blessed water over her heart and say:
Your heart is blessed so that you may feel compassion for yourself and others.
I rub the blessed water on both her/his hands and say:
Your hands are blessed so that you may reach out to the world.
I rub the blessed water on both her/his feet and say:
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.
Poem :( Read by a Grandparent or Godparent)
Speak to Us of Children (by Kahil Gibran)
Your children are not your children
They are the sons and daughters of life’s longing for itself
They come through you but not from you.
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
Which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them.
For life goes not backward nor tarries with yesterdays.
You are bows from which your children as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer seeks the mark upon the path of the infinite,
And he bends you with His might that His arrow may go swift and far.
Let your blending in the archer’s hand be for goodness.
For even as He loves the arrow that flies,
So He loves the bow that is stable.
Final blessing
Officiant:
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.
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.
****************************************************************************************************************************************************
~Baby Blessing/Naming with Rose Petals and Participation of Family/Friends~
When it comes time for the blessing/naming, the Rose Petal Ceremony is very beautiful alternative to water or oil. You may want to include friends or relatives. Of course it can be tailored to your desires.
Friends and Family of (Baby). (Parents of the Baby) have invited us today to take part in a ceremony which welcomes their baby into their family unit, and into the wider family of their relatives and friends.
And while the birth of their baby has meant great joy for them, this joy is not unmixed. The responsibility of this child's life and happiness is in their hands. From now on, much of their life will involve caring for their baby, guiding her development, nurturing her growth as a responsible human being.
Just as they have invited you here to share their happiness and their joy, so (Parents of the Baby) also ask you to share their responsibility, realizing that the more love this child receives, the more she will be able to give love to other. The more people make up her world, the richer her world will be.
First person showers the baby with white rose petals)
Officiant:
As the petals of the white rose symbolize innocence, may (Baby's) ideals and heart remain untarnished and ever pure, with the wonders of childhood innocence forever hers.
(Second person showers the baby with yellow rose petals)
Officiant:
May the petals of the yellow rose foreshadow the friends and the friendships, steadfast and unwavering, that will bless her in the years ahead.
(Third person showers the baby with pink rose petals)
Officiant:
The pink rose and her petals speak of the tender love and compassion her spirit will know. The love that knows no bounds.
(Fourth person showers the baby with red rose petals)
Officiant:
And as always, may the passion of the red rose forever kindle the fire in her heart for both life itself and for all the passions she will find there.
Baby's Mother:
May you know blessings in your life that your father and I have had in ours.
Baby's Father:
Friends and family, please welcome our daughter (Baby)
Parents:
To this child, as to all children, we make these pledges - We will recognize your worth as a person, and help you to strengthen your sense of belonging to the human family.
We will give you our love so that you may grow with trust in yourself and in other people.
We will respect your right to be yourself and at the same time help you to understand the rights of others.
We will encourage you always to search for the truth. We will give you the opportunity to develop your own understanding of life, and a respect for all living beings
Grandparents:
So much love to give you, overwhelmed with pride and joy
Such tiny little fingers, ten tiny little toes
A perfect face and body with a little button nose
Tender words and kisses, hugs and cuddles too
Patience and understanding will all be wrapped around you.
Fun times to share together, stories to be told
Nursery rhymes and ditties, as your little life unfolds
You are very special to people near and far
And loving you is easy because I'm your Grandma.
Officiant:
The bond between parents and their children is very strong, but the support and encouragement of others is vital for the development of this child. And important tradition in our culture on this occasion is the responsibility accepted by the Godparents.
(Parents of the Baby) have chosen Godparents for their child for whom they have the highest regard. Godparents should be willing to take a special and lifelong interest in the moral and ethical development of their God Child.
As you accept the role of a Godparent, you are agreeing to be an adult friend to (Baby), to whom she can turn for loving support and guidance as she grows.
Will you accept this commitment and responsibility? Will you be kind to (Baby)? Help to look after her? And surround her with love and affection?
Godparent:
I will.
Officiant:
(Godparents), please say these words to (Baby).
Godparents:
We, the Godparents, agree to reserve a special place in our hearts for (Baby). To offer her our support whenever possible.
Officiant:
(Godparents), please light your candle from (Baby's) candle, and repeat after me.
Godparents:
As I light this candle, I confirm that I am part of (Baby's) personal family. (Baby) may always turn to me for guidance, comfort and love.
(Parents together light a candle for the Baby)
Officiant:
Let us all now join together in a blessing for (Baby)
(Baby), today we officially welcome you. we wish you long life and happiness in a loving and peaceful world.
May you bring joy to your parents, your (brothers and sisters), your Godparents, your family and friends.
May you contribute to making this world a better and happier place.
Officiant:
In our contact with (Baby) let us make it our responsibility to show by our action what it is to live life with integrity, honesty, fairness and love towards fellow human beings.
Being aware of how interrelated our lives are, let us show (Baby) that a good life is one where each of us is strengthened by the affection and friendship of others. May we all benefit from our involvement with this child, and with each other.
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.
**************************************************************************************************************************************************
When it comes time for the blessing/naming, the Rose Petal Ceremony is very beautiful alternative to water or oil. You may want to include friends or relatives. Of course it can be tailored to your desires.
Friends and Family of (Baby). (Parents of the Baby) have invited us today to take part in a ceremony which welcomes their baby into their family unit, and into the wider family of their relatives and friends.
And while the birth of their baby has meant great joy for them, this joy is not unmixed. The responsibility of this child's life and happiness is in their hands. From now on, much of their life will involve caring for their baby, guiding her development, nurturing her growth as a responsible human being.
Just as they have invited you here to share their happiness and their joy, so (Parents of the Baby) also ask you to share their responsibility, realizing that the more love this child receives, the more she will be able to give love to other. The more people make up her world, the richer her world will be.
First person showers the baby with white rose petals)
Officiant:
As the petals of the white rose symbolize innocence, may (Baby's) ideals and heart remain untarnished and ever pure, with the wonders of childhood innocence forever hers.
(Second person showers the baby with yellow rose petals)
Officiant:
May the petals of the yellow rose foreshadow the friends and the friendships, steadfast and unwavering, that will bless her in the years ahead.
(Third person showers the baby with pink rose petals)
Officiant:
The pink rose and her petals speak of the tender love and compassion her spirit will know. The love that knows no bounds.
(Fourth person showers the baby with red rose petals)
Officiant:
And as always, may the passion of the red rose forever kindle the fire in her heart for both life itself and for all the passions she will find there.
Baby's Mother:
May you know blessings in your life that your father and I have had in ours.
Baby's Father:
Friends and family, please welcome our daughter (Baby)
Parents:
To this child, as to all children, we make these pledges - We will recognize your worth as a person, and help you to strengthen your sense of belonging to the human family.
We will give you our love so that you may grow with trust in yourself and in other people.
We will respect your right to be yourself and at the same time help you to understand the rights of others.
We will encourage you always to search for the truth. We will give you the opportunity to develop your own understanding of life, and a respect for all living beings
Grandparents:
So much love to give you, overwhelmed with pride and joy
Such tiny little fingers, ten tiny little toes
A perfect face and body with a little button nose
Tender words and kisses, hugs and cuddles too
Patience and understanding will all be wrapped around you.
Fun times to share together, stories to be told
Nursery rhymes and ditties, as your little life unfolds
You are very special to people near and far
And loving you is easy because I'm your Grandma.
Officiant:
The bond between parents and their children is very strong, but the support and encouragement of others is vital for the development of this child. And important tradition in our culture on this occasion is the responsibility accepted by the Godparents.
(Parents of the Baby) have chosen Godparents for their child for whom they have the highest regard. Godparents should be willing to take a special and lifelong interest in the moral and ethical development of their God Child.
As you accept the role of a Godparent, you are agreeing to be an adult friend to (Baby), to whom she can turn for loving support and guidance as she grows.
Will you accept this commitment and responsibility? Will you be kind to (Baby)? Help to look after her? And surround her with love and affection?
Godparent:
I will.
Officiant:
(Godparents), please say these words to (Baby).
Godparents:
We, the Godparents, agree to reserve a special place in our hearts for (Baby). To offer her our support whenever possible.
Officiant:
(Godparents), please light your candle from (Baby's) candle, and repeat after me.
Godparents:
As I light this candle, I confirm that I am part of (Baby's) personal family. (Baby) may always turn to me for guidance, comfort and love.
(Parents together light a candle for the Baby)
Officiant:
Let us all now join together in a blessing for (Baby)
(Baby), today we officially welcome you. we wish you long life and happiness in a loving and peaceful world.
May you bring joy to your parents, your (brothers and sisters), your Godparents, your family and friends.
May you contribute to making this world a better and happier place.
Officiant:
In our contact with (Baby) let us make it our responsibility to show by our action what it is to live life with integrity, honesty, fairness and love towards fellow human beings.
Being aware of how interrelated our lives are, let us show (Baby) that a good life is one where each of us is strengthened by the affection and friendship of others. May we all benefit from our involvement with this child, and with each other.
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.
**************************************************************************************************************************************************
~Baby Blessing (simple, no water/oil or roses)~
Greeting:
What you are all about to witness here today is truly a celebration of love, and of life! As _____ is here today, she is new and perfect, with no need of fixing nor cleansing. She is a gift. Her smile, her laughter, and her presence enrich the lives of all who know her. Only half way through her first year here, ___months old, and already she has made the world a better place.
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.’
Today we simply give thanks and celebrate all the many wonderful blessings _____ brings and do our best to remember, and be thankful for, the very special role that we all have in her life.
____ and ______, as you hold your daughter will you now reflect on the gratitude and joy in your heart, remembering to be thankful for all that has come to pass, and all that has made it possible for _____ to come to be as well as all of the amazing things that her future shall hold.”
Parents reflect for a moment then kiss their daughter
The Parent’s Vows:
____ and ______, the journey of parenthood is one of amazing beauty, this is clear just to look at you both. The love that radiates from and around you and your daughter today shall change over the years. We gather here because it is our wish that _____ grow to be a woman who truly loves her life. You most of all will be her guide on this journey. It is important to provide not only food and clothing to a child but also time and love and respect. So it is only right that this ceremony should include your promise to nurture your daughter in all ways as she grows.
Therefore as a promise to her and a reminder to yourselves as the years pass, I now ask you…
Do you promise to teach _____not who or what, but how to love, to trust, to respect, and to dream so that she may truly participate in the remarkable journey that is life?
Parents: “Yes.”
To be honest about your triumphs and as well as your missteps so that _____ will have the valuable opportunity to learn from your example, yet still be free to learn her own lessons in life?
Parents: “Yes.”
That you will value her hopes and dreams and let her know that she will always be welcomed, accepted and loved for who she is and for who she is not?”
Parents: “Yes.”
To expose her to a variety of experiences, showing her the beginnings of many a wondrous journey, instilling in her a sense of wonder and passion, and the knowledge that she alone has the power to complete herself?
Parents: “Yes.”
Do you promise to hold her close in your hearts always, yet still encourage her to stand on her own when the time comes so that she may discover her own true self?
Parents: “Yes.”
Greeting:
What you are all about to witness here today is truly a celebration of love, and of life! As _____ is here today, she is new and perfect, with no need of fixing nor cleansing. She is a gift. Her smile, her laughter, and her presence enrich the lives of all who know her. Only half way through her first year here, ___months old, and already she has made the world a better place.
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.’
Today we simply give thanks and celebrate all the many wonderful blessings _____ brings and do our best to remember, and be thankful for, the very special role that we all have in her life.
____ and ______, as you hold your daughter will you now reflect on the gratitude and joy in your heart, remembering to be thankful for all that has come to pass, and all that has made it possible for _____ to come to be as well as all of the amazing things that her future shall hold.”
Parents reflect for a moment then kiss their daughter
The Parent’s Vows:
____ and ______, the journey of parenthood is one of amazing beauty, this is clear just to look at you both. The love that radiates from and around you and your daughter today shall change over the years. We gather here because it is our wish that _____ grow to be a woman who truly loves her life. You most of all will be her guide on this journey. It is important to provide not only food and clothing to a child but also time and love and respect. So it is only right that this ceremony should include your promise to nurture your daughter in all ways as she grows.
Therefore as a promise to her and a reminder to yourselves as the years pass, I now ask you…
Do you promise to teach _____not who or what, but how to love, to trust, to respect, and to dream so that she may truly participate in the remarkable journey that is life?
Parents: “Yes.”
To be honest about your triumphs and as well as your missteps so that _____ will have the valuable opportunity to learn from your example, yet still be free to learn her own lessons in life?
Parents: “Yes.”
That you will value her hopes and dreams and let her know that she will always be welcomed, accepted and loved for who she is and for who she is not?”
Parents: “Yes.”
To expose her to a variety of experiences, showing her the beginnings of many a wondrous journey, instilling in her a sense of wonder and passion, and the knowledge that she alone has the power to complete herself?
Parents: “Yes.”
Do you promise to hold her close in your hearts always, yet still encourage her to stand on her own when the time comes so that she may discover her own true self?
Parents: “Yes.”
And now a reading of a poem I can Fly (author unknown)
(Can be read by God Parent, relative, friend or officiant)
Some say I can fly on the wind, yet I haven’t any wings.
Some have found me floating on the open sea,
yet I cannot swim.
Some have felt my warmth on cold nights,
yet I have no flame.
And though you cannot see me,
I lay between two lovers at the hearth of fireplaces.
I am the twinkle in your child’s eyes.
I am hidden in the smile lines of your mother's faces
I am their shield as they guard your home.
Some say I am stronger than steel,
yet I am as fragile as a tear.
Some have never searched for me,
yet I am around them always.
Some say I die with loss, yet I am endless.
And though you cannot hear me,
I dance on the laughter of children.
I am woven into the whispers of passion.
I am in the blessings of Great Grandmothers.
I embrace the cries of newborn babies.
Some say I am a flower, yet I am also the seed.
Some have little faith in me,
yet I will always believe in them.
Some say I cannot cure the ill, yet I nourish the soul.
And though you cannot touch me,
I am the gentle hand of the kind.
I am the fingertips that caress your cheek at night.
I am the hug of a child.
I am love.”
The Godparents Vows:
It is often mistakenly thought that the Godparents are the ones who shall raise a child in the event that the parents cannot. But this is not so. 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.
______and _____ as _____’s parents the duty to safeguard her future is yours. Have you chosen those who will aid you in giving love and council to your child as she grows?”
______ and ____: “We Have.”
“We have chosen _____and _____
Mother or father say: Because these are two very special people in both of our lives,
They have both have been there through all we have gone through to get to this day and have stuck by us all the way.”
(Can be read by God Parent, relative, friend or officiant)
Some say I can fly on the wind, yet I haven’t any wings.
Some have found me floating on the open sea,
yet I cannot swim.
Some have felt my warmth on cold nights,
yet I have no flame.
And though you cannot see me,
I lay between two lovers at the hearth of fireplaces.
I am the twinkle in your child’s eyes.
I am hidden in the smile lines of your mother's faces
I am their shield as they guard your home.
Some say I am stronger than steel,
yet I am as fragile as a tear.
Some have never searched for me,
yet I am around them always.
Some say I die with loss, yet I am endless.
And though you cannot hear me,
I dance on the laughter of children.
I am woven into the whispers of passion.
I am in the blessings of Great Grandmothers.
I embrace the cries of newborn babies.
Some say I am a flower, yet I am also the seed.
Some have little faith in me,
yet I will always believe in them.
Some say I cannot cure the ill, yet I nourish the soul.
And though you cannot touch me,
I am the gentle hand of the kind.
I am the fingertips that caress your cheek at night.
I am the hug of a child.
I am love.”
The Godparents Vows:
It is often mistakenly thought that the Godparents are the ones who shall raise a child in the event that the parents cannot. But this is not so. 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.
______and _____ as _____’s parents the duty to safeguard her future is yours. Have you chosen those who will aid you in giving love and council to your child as she grows?”
______ and ____: “We Have.”
“We have chosen _____and _____
Mother or father say: Because these are two very special people in both of our lives,
They have both have been there through all we have gone through to get to this day and have stuck by us all the way.”
Godparents come forward
“While you are not _____’s parents the place that you have both taken in her life is an
important one. ______and ____ trust your motivations and your judgment completely and they take comfort in knowing that although there will be times when _____ cannot come to them, that she will always be able to come to you for guidance and support. By accepting the role of Godparent you say to _____ and the world. I promise, I will be there for you as you grow into womanhood. With this in mind I now ask you...
Will you as best as you can, help take care of _____?
To protect her at all times from harm?
To encourage, guide and support her in all her endeavors,
Help her recognize the beauty within herself and all things,
And to become someday not the woman we wish for her but the realization of her own hopes, dreams and the fulfillment of her soul?”
Godparents: “We will.”
“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..”
Pledge of Support:
The Godparents do not stand alone this day, for their role is a special one the presence and support of all of you, family and friends, is needed for _____ to grow strong and balanced.
Each of you possess such beautiful qualities, and strength of character that have been a blessing to ______and ____ life. Today we ask that you acknowledge your acceptance of the task of providing a supportive community to _____. Through your presence and example, you will help her discover her own extraordinary talents and contribute them towards a better world. There are many paths, and each must find their own. So do you agree teach young _____ all the things you know to be true in your heart, so that when she is fully grown, she shall discover her own truths. She will know which path is hers and shall travel it with joy. Do
you so accept this responsibility?”
Guests: “We do.”
Blessing:
Our Lord God,
You have blessed this family with a new life,
May the gift of _____’s presence bring joy and gladness
to the hearts of all who love her.
May she be blessed and protected
through all of the wonderful
and difficult things that they years will bring.
May she find goodness and inspiration, and be given
the wisdom to discern the true from the transient,
May her life be rich and full,
in wealth that is measured by both the physical
and spiritual context of her existence
May _____ be prosperous in all ways.
May she love well and be well loved.
Through each passage and season,
May she always be surrounded
by the warmth of family and friends.
And may her days be forever filled with love and happiness.
Amen
A reading by another family member:
“On Children” from The Prophet
by Kahlil Gibran
“Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of life’s longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them,
but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward not tarries with yesterday.
You are the bows from which your children
as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,
and bends you with might that the arrows
may go swift and far.
Let your bending in the Archer’s hand be for gladness;
For even as the Archer loves the arrow that flies,
so the Archer also loves the bow that is stable.”
Closing Words:
An “Irish Baby Blessing.” ~
“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 you 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.”
Mother says: “May you know blessings of love family and friendship in your life that we have had in ours.”
Father says: “Ladies and gentlemen, dear friends and family,
Our daughter _____ _____!”
“While you are not _____’s parents the place that you have both taken in her life is an
important one. ______and ____ trust your motivations and your judgment completely and they take comfort in knowing that although there will be times when _____ cannot come to them, that she will always be able to come to you for guidance and support. By accepting the role of Godparent you say to _____ and the world. I promise, I will be there for you as you grow into womanhood. With this in mind I now ask you...
Will you as best as you can, help take care of _____?
To protect her at all times from harm?
To encourage, guide and support her in all her endeavors,
Help her recognize the beauty within herself and all things,
And to become someday not the woman we wish for her but the realization of her own hopes, dreams and the fulfillment of her soul?”
Godparents: “We will.”
“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..”
Pledge of Support:
The Godparents do not stand alone this day, for their role is a special one the presence and support of all of you, family and friends, is needed for _____ to grow strong and balanced.
Each of you possess such beautiful qualities, and strength of character that have been a blessing to ______and ____ life. Today we ask that you acknowledge your acceptance of the task of providing a supportive community to _____. Through your presence and example, you will help her discover her own extraordinary talents and contribute them towards a better world. There are many paths, and each must find their own. So do you agree teach young _____ all the things you know to be true in your heart, so that when she is fully grown, she shall discover her own truths. She will know which path is hers and shall travel it with joy. Do
you so accept this responsibility?”
Guests: “We do.”
Blessing:
Our Lord God,
You have blessed this family with a new life,
May the gift of _____’s presence bring joy and gladness
to the hearts of all who love her.
May she be blessed and protected
through all of the wonderful
and difficult things that they years will bring.
May she find goodness and inspiration, and be given
the wisdom to discern the true from the transient,
May her life be rich and full,
in wealth that is measured by both the physical
and spiritual context of her existence
May _____ be prosperous in all ways.
May she love well and be well loved.
Through each passage and season,
May she always be surrounded
by the warmth of family and friends.
And may her days be forever filled with love and happiness.
Amen
A reading by another family member:
“On Children” from The Prophet
by Kahlil Gibran
“Your children are not your children.
They are the sons and daughters of life’s longing for itself.
They come through you but not from you,
And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.
You may give them your love but not your thoughts,
For they have their own thoughts.
You may house their bodies but not their souls,
For their souls dwell in the house of tomorrow,
which you cannot visit, not even in your dreams.
You may strive to be like them,
but seek not to make them like you.
For life goes not backward not tarries with yesterday.
You are the bows from which your children
as living arrows are sent forth.
The archer sees the mark upon the path of the infinite,
and bends you with might that the arrows
may go swift and far.
Let your bending in the Archer’s hand be for gladness;
For even as the Archer loves the arrow that flies,
so the Archer also loves the bow that is stable.”
Closing Words:
An “Irish Baby Blessing.” ~
“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 you 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.”
Mother says: “May you know blessings of love family and friendship in your life that we have had in ours.”
Father says: “Ladies and gentlemen, dear friends and family,
Our daughter _____ _____!”
