Unitarians believe that special services which are held to mark significant stages in the life of an individual should be as relevant and unique to the participants as possible. This means that the rites of passage are not rigidly fixed, but are prepared in consultation with the persons who are directly involved. Two examples of this can be read below.
Weddings (Wedding Leaflet click here to read)
Margaret and James McClymont wrote:
'We were married on 20th June 2009 by Iain Brown, a Celebrant of Glasgow Unitarian
Church. With Iain's guidance, insight and experience, we were able to create our very own Wedding Service from start to finish. Texts, music and hymns came from a wide variety of sources, reflecting and complimenting our individual religious backgrounds and beliefs. The Service was attended by 80 family and friends. They were enthusiastic in their appreciation of the warmth, sincerity and personal nature of the Service.
A truly lovely day to be cherished and remembered.'
Funerals (Funerals Leaflet click here to read)
Allan and Beverley Brown wrote:
'When Allan's mother, Betty died in October 2009 we had a real problem arranging
her cremation service. Betty was not a member of a church but as some of the family wanted to include hymns, we found this was unacceptable to the Humanist funeral leaders we contacted. We were so grateful to Glasgow Unitarians. Roddy Macpherson, GUC Celebrant , kindly agreed to meet with us and to take the service. He did a wonderful job - blending stories from Betty's life to create a personal, sincere celebration of all she was as a mother, grandmother and great grandmother. He struck just the right note and the whole family felt Betty's service was a moving, meaningful farewell.'
Child Namings and Welcomings (Naming Leaflet click here to read)
Unitarians are not bound by religious rules and customs. We can devise a ceremony
to suit the individual needs and wishes of the parents and family. Parents are welcome to help in planning it. The ceremony may be called a Naming Service or a Welcoming - other names can be used such as Dedication, Blessing, Thanksgiving or Baptism. What is important to Unitarians is the commitment by the community as well as the parents - to offer the child love and support.
If you would like help in planning a wedding, funeral or child welcoming, please go to our CONTACTS PAGE and contact one of our Celebrants direct.
