CHILD COVENANT NAMING CEREMONY.
Beloved brethren, someone asked me whether Child Covenant Naming Ceremony for new born babies is a Biblical tradition or a church tradition?
The Naming of John The Baptist is classic example that Child Naming Ceremony for new born babies is a Biblical tradition.
Luke 1:59,62-63 KJV
59. And it came to pass, that on the eighth day they came to circumcise the child;
and they called him Zacharias, after the name of his father.
62. And they made signs to his father, how he would have him called.
63. And he asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John......"
Names have a lot of significance both in the Scriptures and in cultural traditions.
A name can define your mission here on earth.
Jesus was given His name many centuries before His birth became He was coming on a very special mission.
Matthew 1:21 KJV,
"And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins".
The Bible has many examples of people whose names were changed to align with their new status or missions.
1. Abram to Abraham - Genesis 17:5
2. Jacob to Israel - Genesis 32:28
3. Simon to Peter - Matthew 16:17-18.
4. Soul to Paul - Acts 13:9
The Bible tells us that a good name is more preferable than wealth.
Proverbs 22:1 KJV,
"A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold".
Child Covenant Naming Ceremony is not religious requirement:
but it is meaningful way to celebrate and welcome a new child into the family and community.
Below, find a few reasons why some Christians choose to conduct a Child Covenant Naming Ceremony.
1. Thanksgiving and Blessing:
The ceremony often includes prayers of thanksgiving for the safe arrival of the baby and prophetic blessings for their future.
2. Public Declaration:
It is a way to formally announce the name of the child and signify their place within the family and the church.
3. Community Involvement:
It is an opportunity for family and friends to come together and show their support for the child and their parents.
4. Personal Significance:
Some families choose names with special meanings, perhaps honouring Biblical Figures or names with prophetic significance.
5. Prophetic Declarations:
Naming ceremony usually incorporate Prophetic Declarations from the parents and the Pastor conducting the ceremony.
It is important to note that Child Covenant Naming Ceremony is separate from Baptism and does not hold the same religious significance.
Boniface Amani Gichina (CPM)
