Celebrating a precious new life
As a newly ordained OneSpirit Interfaith minister, the first ceremony I took was a naming ceremony for my grandson. Carrie and Brian love the countryside, whether on horseback or walking the dogs. They decided to celebrate the arrival of their son in their garden beneath the willow tree, where, God surely abides. Should it rain, proceedings would take place in a neighbouring hay-barn. Guests were invited to bring favourite teddies and picnic rugs.
The weeping-willow formed a temple where sunlight filtered through the leaves and wind-chimes tinkled in the gentle breeze. A rustic table was the focal point on which stood two bowls, one contained water from a sacred well in Glastonbury and the other earth, a goose feather, a candle and posy of wild flowers.
People gathered and picnic rugs were spread in the shade with bales of straw covered with rugs for the less agile.
I spoke about the privilege of conducting Adam’s naming ceremony and explained the significance of the willow tree. According to ancient custom it is a sacred tree, known for its healing qualities. Billy, Carrie’s old horse, intuitively knows that willow is an analgesic and that it eases his arthritis. The willow is also believed to have the power to make wishes come true. I invited everyone to write their wishes for Adam on the strips of cotton fabric provided and tie them to the tree so that their wishes may be absorbed by the elements. Within the ceremony: Carrie and Brian lit a special candle before making their promises to their son
Four ‘Life Guardians: of creativity, spirituality, wisdom and male youth promised to love and support Adam, with emphasis on their life-skills
The couple named their son ’Adam Thomas,’ Adam, meaning ‘first man’ and Thomas the name of his great grandfather
Adam was duly blessed with the four elements; earth, sacred water and a stroke on his cheek with the goose feather and a lighted candle held aloft.
Adam’s grandfather planted a Mountain Ash tree that in the winter has bright red berries to feed the birds and watered it with the remaining sacred water.
Picnic boxes were distributed, which included teddy-shaped biscuits. A bear hunt took place followed by games.
If you are planning a celebration, what might you include?
Jean Francis is a OneSpirit Interfaith minister/celebrant living in Horsham. You can find out more about her ceremonies at www. circleoflifecelebrations.co.uk Jean is also the founder and inspiration director of Last Wishes, an organisation which seeks to encourage people to think about their legacy and have open conversations with their loved ones about their end-of-life wishes.