Rhiannon's Naming Ceremony

DARYL: We meet together on this special day to celebrate the birth and naming of this child, and to witness solemn undertakings on her behalf made by her parents, godparents, mentor, and muse.

DARYL and ALICIA: We have brought our child here to be welcomed into the circle of our family and friends. We have chosen the name Rhiannon Lee Bayer.

DARYL and ALICIA light a fire, saying:
In honour of Rhiannon, we light this fire. The light stands for a new life and the hopes we have for her. The warmth of the flame represents the warmth of human love and friendship. We light it for her. May her life never be dark.

DARYL TO ALICIA: Will you care for Rhiannon, keep her, clothe her, shelter and protect her, for as long as she needs you, as best you can?

ALICIA: I will.

DARYL: Will you try to show Rhiannon, by your example, how to live a true and good life?

ALICIA: I will.

DARYL: Will you surround Rhiannon with affection and love? Will you encourage and support her as she grows up, helping, especially in times of trouble, and making as sure as you can that no harm comes near her?

ALICIA: I will.

DARYL: Do you promise to love and cherish her all your life?

ALICIA: I will.

ALICIA TO DARYL: Will you care for Rhiannon, keep her, clothe her, shelter and protect her, for as long as she needs you, as best you can?

DARYL: I will.

ALICIA: Will you try to show Rhiannon, by your example, how to live a true and good life?

DARYL: I will.

ALICIA: Will you surround Rhiannon with affection and love? Will you encourage and support her as she grows up, helping, especially in times of trouble, and making as sure as you can that no harm comes near her?

DARYL: I will.

ALICIA: Do you promise to love and cherish her all your life?

DARYL: I will.

DARYL: Rhiannon's godmother, Trevi, couldn't be here in person today, but is with us in spirit. She sent her vows to be read now.

TREVI (by Alicia):
With all of the power I have, I promise to keep Rhiannon cradled deep in my heart and soul always and to teach her of my world. I charge my ancestors to watch over her as if she were my own and to keep her safe.

DARYL: Who is Rhiannon's mentor?

GEORGE: I am her mentor, George ______.

DARYL: Will you, as best you can, help to take care of Rhiannon, teaching her about life, helping her to find the right paths, encouraging and supporting her in all that she does?

George: I will.

DARYL: Who is Rhiannon's Muse?

SUE: I am her muse, Sue _______.

DARYL: Will you, as best you can, inspire and teach Rhiannon, showing her the beauty in all things, and helping her create her own beauty?

SUE: I will.

DARYL: (holding Rhiannon):

"Blessed be your breath.
    May your breathing be deep and relaxed.
        May you breathe in power with every breath you take.
            Blessed Be each breath within you.

Blessed be the fire inside you.
    May your will be unbroken.
        And may it be as strong as fire, and as supple.
            May your passions burn truly and free.
                Blessed be your fire, may it burn strong.

Blessed be the waters of your life.
    May your blood be strong.
        May your tears be pure and cleansing.
            Blessed be all your life-waters.

Blessed be the earth of your body.
    May your muscles be strong and fearless.
        May your heart beat with love, soul, vigour and courage.
            Blessed be the strength of your body.

Blessed be your spirit.
    May you always have health in spirit.
        May you be whole.
            May you know the innate goodness of your being.
                Blessed be your spirit.

May you always be surrounded by the warmth of family & friends.

May you be prosperous in all ways.

May you love and be loved.

And may your voice be truly heard.

Blessed Be you."

(Touching moss to her forehead):
In Life, I name you Rhiannon Lee Bayer.

DARYL TO EVERYONE: Now let's all give her our wishes for the future.

DARYL tells her his/her wish for her (beauty, happiness, etc.), kisses her on the forehead and passes her on to the next person, who does the same. Keep going until all present have participated.