Today in RE, we explored the question: How do Muslims welcome babies? We learned about Aqiqah, a ceremony that many Muslim families use to welcome a new baby into the community. We discussed some traditions that may take place during Aqiqah, such as cutting the baby’s hair, giving to charity and gathering with family and friends to celebrate.
We then compared similarities and differences between Aqiqah and Baptism. The children identified that Baptism often involves the use of water and oil, whereas Aqiqah may involve cutting the baby’s hair. We also discussed that, in Christianity, people can be baptised at different ages, not only as babies. The children recognised that both celebrations can represent belonging, welcoming, and the importance of family, faith and community.
