In Canada, it became apparent as early as 1970 that the desire for Unitarian rites of passage far surpassed the availability of Unitarian ministers. The Lay Chaplaincy program was developed to meet this need. Lay Chaplains are chosen by their congregations and sanctioned by the Canadian Unitarian Council. Lay Chaplains are officially licensed by provincial government to perform legally binding marriage ceremonies.
Code of Ethics for Lay Chaplains
Statement of Purpose
We, Lay Chaplains appointed by our congregations under the guidelines of the Canadian Unitarian Council, give full assent to this code of behavior as a statement of our serious intent and as an expression of our common concerns and loyalties.
Self
I commit myself, before all else, to honest and responsible performance of my duties as lay chaplain. Because the religious life is a growing life, I will strive to keep alive my own religious growth. I will try to be aware of my own weaknesses and strengths. Knowing my limitations, I will not hesitate to seek help in difficulty. I will sustain in my own mind respect for the lay chaplaincy. I will refrain from words and actions that degrade the lay chaplaincy or are destructive to congregational life.
Colleagues
I will do my best to support my colleagues and to keep, for them, an open mind and heart. I will respect confidences given to me by my colleagues. I will not speak scornfully or in derogation of any colleague. When critical of a colleague, I will speak responsibly, temperately, and constructively. I will try to inform my colleague, in advance, of any request for my services within her/his church or purview. I will consider with respect her/his objection, if any, to such engagement. When sharing lay chaplaincy with others, I will work in cooperation and in consultation in accordance to clearly defined responsibilities.
Community
I will hold to a single standard of respect and help for all members of the church and larger community. I will respect the confidentiality of private communications. I will not invade the private and intimate bonds of others’ lives, nor will I trespass on those bonds for my own advantage. I will not exploit the needs of another person for my own purposes. I will treat with respect and sensitivity the religious beliefs and traditions of others. I will strive to live and to speak in a way that exemplifies the best of Unitarian values and traditions.
Jenn Carpenter-Gleim
It has always been important to me that people be allowed to be who they are, exactly as they are. Each person should be able to live true to the principles that resonate with them, free from judgement. It has long been a dream of mine to help people celebrate their rites of passage in a way that feels authentic to them.
As a lay chaplin with the Unitarian Fellowship of Fredericton I would be honoured to help you create a ceremony that feels right to you. It is important to plan a ceremony that expresses your relationship and the marriage you intend to build together. Wedding services are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate two individuals who have chosen to come together in marriage. When we meet we can discuss what kind of ceremony you would like to have. Intimate, minimal, sacred, warm, interfaith, light hearted? The possibilities are endless.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with any questions you may have about any rites of passage. I look forward to hearing from you.
Diversity of Belief, Unity of Spirit
Unitarians affirm the inherent worth and dignity of all people and so we are pleased to also officiate weddings for people who are lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgendered, and queer. (LGBTQ)
It would be my pleasure to discuss with you your wedding day, done your way. Please feel free to reach out with any questions you might have.
I would also be honoured to perform any other rites of passage you may require including, but not limited to, child dedications, funerals and memorial services.
Kathleen Gaudet
The principles of Unitarian beliefs include recognizing the dignity and worth of all persons, from all cultures and all spiritual backgrounds, accepting each other as individuals, encouraging curiosity and spiritual growth, showing compassion to all persons and working for peace in a global community. I am so happy to be able to provide you with a ceremony that starts with these values!
As your legal marriage officiant, I will
- Listen to Your Story: We will meet beforehand to discuss your vision, values, and relationship, allowing me to weave your personal narrative into a beautiful ceremony.
- Embrace Inclusivity: I happily officiate LGBTQ+ marriages and interfaith or multi-cultural ceremonies.
- Respect Your Beliefs: Whether you prefer spiritual-but-not-religious, secular and humanist, or a blend of cultural traditions, your ceremony will be designed to fit your unique perspective.
Baby dedications, memorial services and other milestone events are created with the same care and personalization. I would love to hear from you and work together to bring your special day to life!
If you wish to have a Lay Chaplain preside at a memorial service or a funeral, I can also provide these services.
I will meet with family and friends to craft a personalized remembrance.
My goal is to assist you in creating a gathering which honours and celebrates a unique and cherished individual.
Tessa Walsh
Introduction coming soon
The Canadian Unitarian Council Lay Chaplaincy Program helps clients, couples and families in need of meaningful rite of passage ceremonies, at places chosen by them, by recognizing their personal beliefs and wishes, while being sensitive to the needs of others who attend the ceremony, and reflecting Unitarian and Universalist values.
One of the purposes of the Lay Chaplaincy program is to provide quality rites of passage in a manner consistent with CUC principles and sources for the public and in congregations where a minister is not available.
Our Lay Chaplains help individuals, couples, and families to connect with the Unitarian Fellowship of Fredericton, to celebrate a milestone, honour a loved one, and-or find a spiritual home.
Have a question? Get in touch now.
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(506) 451-0919
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874 York Street
Fredericton, NB E3B 3R8