Naming ceremonies
The Sefton Registration Service is pleased to offer parents
the opportunity of a civil naming ceremony for their child.
A Naming Ceremony is a very special way of celebrating your
child's birth and welcoming the new arrival into the family. It is
also an opportunity to declare, before family and friends, your
promise to be as good a parent as you can. And for adult friends or
relatives, chosen by you, to pledge their special relationship with
your child. A Naming Ceremony is, in every sense, a unique occasion
for everyone to feel involved and to offer their support in
your child's future development.
Children of any age can have a ceremony, it is not just for
babies. If you wish you could hold a Naming Ceremony immediately
after your civil marriage ceremony. Ceremonies can also be used to
celebrate adoptive children and step children into a new
relationship and form part of the family bonding within an extended
family unit.
The ceremony provides a formal opportunity to
- Welcome the child into the family;
- Make promises of commitment to your child;
- Involve other adults and family members in the ceremony
Who can arrange a Naming Ceremony?
Any parent or legal guardian, whether married or not.
Is there a choice of ceremony?
Certainly. The ceremony is put together by the parents from a
wide range of choices on offer. This ensures that no two ceremonies
are exactly the same and you are creating a unique event that you
and your guests will remember.
Where can Civil Naming Ceremonies be held?
Ceremonies are being offered in Register Offices on weekdays
and weekends, subject to accommodation availability. They are also
available in buildings, like hotels, that have been licensed by the
County Council as venues for civil marriage. This service is
offered on a seven days a week basis but you will need to check
with the venue regarding availability. Ceremonies are not available
in other locations, such as private houses or in the open air. A
full list of venues where ceremonies can be held is available
separately: follow the link below.
What these ceremonies are not:
These ceremonies are primarily celebratory. They have no legal
effect, and are not legally binding on those who participate. The
ceremonies must have no religious content.
Celebrants
A celebrant will be appointed to conduct your ceremony but
will not be acting in any official capacity, even if they also work
as a Registrar. Celebrants are trained to conduct different
ceremonies in a professional manner. This ensures your ceremony is
both enjoyable and a memorable occasion for everyone attending the
event.
Last Updated on 9/18/2009