Is there a prayer for "renaming" in the Church?
Many have heard of the "prayer for naming" and consider it a way to change fate or simply take a new name. Archpriest Vadim Hladky on the Church's position on this issue.
Can the Church change my name? What is needed for this?
Unfortunately, it is not so rare to hear such requests. Of course, first of all, I would like to personally talk to the person about the reasons for such a desire, about how they perceive the influence of the name on their life. However, not having the opportunity for a personal conversation, I will respond regarding the prayer you mentioned for the naming.
Many know of its existence, but apparently not everyone listens to its meaning, even some of the clergy.
Indeed, there is such a prayer, which is part of the rite performed on an infant on the eighth day after birth, or just before Baptism. It seems that everything is clear and logical: "naming" means giving the child a name chosen by the parents.
However, in the text itself, we find a revelation: it speaks not so much about the earthly name, but about the name of God. The prayer names the child with the name of Christ, making them a Christia, a part of the great family and a bearer of this primary identity for them.
Let us recall the lives of the saints: when martyrs were asked their name in court, they often replied: "I am a Christian!", implying that this is their true name and essence.
Therefore, the prayer for naming is not a tool for "rebranding" adult life and not a formality for changing passport data. It is a moment when a person, just beginning their journey (or preparing for Baptism), already receives a high title that they must carry throughout their life.
Changing a name simply because it is "not liked" or seems "unfortunate" is not recommended by the Church, which calls us to cherish the title of Christian that we have already received in Baptism.
