A Unitarian wedding ceremony is a unique celebration of the joining of two people on their life’s journey. Each ceremony is created by the team made up of the couple and the Lay Chaplain. The ceremony uses elements which are meaningful to those involved. There is no requirement to be members of a Unitarian church or fellowship to be married in a Unitarian ceremony.
Our Lay Chaplain will meet with the couple wishing to be married to discuss the kind of service they would like to have. The Lay Chaplain will offer a selection of readings, vows and blessings to choose from. The couple may select the elements they feel best express their situation or may choose to use other material which suits their needs.
- Processional
- Opening Words
- Address to Family and Friends
- Affirmation of intentions
- Address to couple
- Exchange of Vows
- Exchange of Symbols
- Reading or Meditation or Prayer
- Pronouncement & signing of the register
- Candle Lighting and children's affirmation
- Blessing
- Closing Words
- Recessional
A Unitarian marriage ceremony, is based on the goals and wishes of the participants, rather than on institutional forms. Unitarian ceremonies strive to honour different religious backgrounds and cultural traditions
Couples getting married in a Unitarian ceremony are welcome to explore the Unitarian Fellowship of Fredericton to see if it is a place where they can cultivate a deep and meaningful spiritual life. Attendance at services is not a pre-requisite to having a Unitarian wedding ceremony
Place of Ceremony
A Lay Chaplain will travel to various settings to perform a wedding. the homes of couples, parents, and of friends. Outside settings such as parks, beaches and gardens may be selected, but alternate plans should be made in case of inclement weather
The Ceremony
The Lay Chaplain will work with the couple to create a ceremony that is meaningful to them
Music
Professional musicians or friends may provide the music or recorded music may be used. At an informal wedding the couple may choose not to have music. If desired, however music can be played before the ceremony while the guests are arriving
Marriage Certificate
The Lay Chaplain will provide the couple with a Form 10, Statement of Marriage, after the ceremony. Official certified copies of the Marriage Certificate can be purchased from the Vital Statistics Office
Sobriety
In a commercial setting, it is recommended the bar be closed and no alcohol be served prior to the ceremony. The couple must be sober and drug free during the ceremony
Photos and Videotaping
Guests may take photos or videotape the ceremony as long as they are unobtrusive and do not detract from the atmosphere of the ceremony. The final decision rests with the couple being married
Essentials
The essentials are a location for the ceremony itself and a desk or table for the signing of the registration and register. Two witnesses, both over 19, must be present. The Officiant must have the wedding license in hand
Have a question?
Get in touch today and we will be happy to assist with any of your queries.