The practice of christening an infant is ancient in origin, predating even the earliest Christian traditions.  Over the centuries, the way in which the christenings are performed and even the interpretation of their meaning has undergone many changes. However, underlying all the differences in religious traditions is a common foundation--a sense that we are more than physical beings.  The purpose of christening is to recognize in an outer way the spiritual identity, purpose and perfection of the child's soul.

In Unity, we look to the example of Jesus as our guide.  In Mark 10:13-16, we read that Jesus took the children in his arms and blessed them.  Christening in Unity is the act of welcoming a child into our world and recognizing this soul by name in its human journey.  It is a time for parents to dedicate themselves to raising their child in an awareness of God's loving presence.

Believing that we are each born in original blessing (not original sin), we use the symbol of the rose and rose petals (not water) to bless and christen the child.  The service is done by one of our Unity ministers and lasts about 20 minutes.

Please contact:

Rev. Will Newsom  - 858-689-6500, ext. 102   will@theunitycenter.net