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Rites of Passage

Unitarian rites of passage are available to anyone, regardless of their church membership status or their religious affiliation (or absence thereof). Our services are non-denominational.

Traditional ceremonies such a weddings, funerals, and child naming ceremonies are prepared collaboratively with those involved and do not come in pre-packaged liturgical forms.

In the recent past, Unitarian churches were places people turned when they wanted a worshipful, religious ceremony, but were prevented from doing so by their inherited faith traditions, or by the absence of an inherited faith tradition. For example, divorced persons or people marrying those outside their faith communities sought out our churches for a religious celebrant to marry them or formally dedicate their newborn children.

Today, our churches are increasingly sought out by those who want the reverential feel of a traditional ceremony without God being brought into it. Unitarians fill that need by offering rites of passage ‘a la carte’, with as much or as little Divinity as required by the comfort and integrity of those involved. Our aim is to be as inclusive as possible.

Please contact our Minister if you would like more information about the following rites of passage, including negotiable fees or tax-deductible donations to the church.

Weddings

We can work with your marriage celebrant to craft your wedding ceremony to include as many, or as few, of the traditional wedding rituals as desired. Our churches are noted worldwide for being leaders in Marriage Equality. In keeping with our Unitarian traditions and values, we welcome weddings for same-sex and transgender couples.

Child Naming/Dedication

Using traditional symbols of water and flowers, UU child naming ceremonies are not limited to the newly born, but can lift to worth and love children of any age. These ceremonies may or may not involve godparents or other family members, and focus on lifting up and celebrating the unique worth and dignity of each new life.

Funerals

Our Minister works in collaboration with your chosen funeral director as part of their undertaking package, thus avoiding negotiations with multiple parties at a difficult time. These can take place in our church, at the funeral home, at the graveside, at home, where ashes are to be scattered, or in any location the wishes of the family dictate.

Other Ceremonies

Other rites of passage, such as coming of age ceremonies and renewals of marriage vows, are also offered. Please contact the Minister for details.