Every family is different, some prefer a religious ceremony and some follow cultural traditions. Whilst some people still prefer a religious ceremony, more people are going towards a more personal ceremony, which can be created by the staff at the Register Office.
A naming ceremony is a formal occasion of a secular nature (non-religious) when family, guardians and friends may welcome a child into the family.
It is a chance to celebrate a new baby or child to the family.
The ceremony can take place at the Register Office or a public building, with the exception of a religious building or church. Times to be arranged with the celebrant.
A naming ceremony can be arranged by contacting your local Register Office. Please ring 0161 770 8960 or e-mail env.registrars@oldham.gov.uk.
Be aware that you will need to bring a birth certificate or adoption certificate and that a naming ceremony cannot be an occasion to change a child’s name.
The naming certificate will not have any legal status and will not be suitable for identification.
You may choose from your friends or family two Guardians, who along with yourselves will declare support and make promises to your child during the ceremony.
You will be able to discuss any enhancements to the Naming Ceremony of readings and music you wish with the Celebrant at your appointment.
Parents will have the opportunity to make further promises to each other along with the grandparents of the child.
Parents may want to present a gift to the child and this can also be incorporated into the ceremony. At the end of the ceremony the celebrant can add good wishes from absent guests for those members of the family or friends who were unable to attend the ceremony.
There will be plenty of opportunity to take photographs before and after the ceremony and the event can be videotaped throughout.
At the close of the ceremony a certificate will be signed by Parents and Guardians and presented to the family.
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