AEU Publications

Ceremonies

Ethical Culture/ Ethical Humanist Ceremonies

Ethical Culture weddings are creative, respecting the individuality of each member of a couple as well as the ethical commitment of marriage.

Ethical Culture memorial services honor the life and individuality of the person who has died, and also honor the grief and feelings of those who remain.

Ethical Culture baby naming ceremonies recognize the joy and the commitment of parenting. By introducing the child formally to family, friends and community, the ceremony recognizes that child as a person of worth and dignity and uniqueness and acknowledges their part in the larger human family.

The American Ethical Union favors the legalization of marriage for couples of the same sex or gender. Societies which provide wedding ceremonies can provide commitment ceremonies for such couples where the state does not recognize the committed relationship as a legal marriage, and regret that such ceremonies do not create the legal status of marriage.

Authorized celebrants

Leaders, as the clergy of Ethical Societies, are authorized under the law to perform weddings. Where professional Leaders are not available, licensed Officiants are available. Officiants have been authorized and trained to perform ceremonies and are authorized under the law to perform weddings. If you have any questions about the authorization of a particular celebrant, you can contact the AEU Office by email Email for clarification.

Policies: Availability, Fees

Each Ethical Society has its own policies regarding availability of Leaders and Officiants to perform weddings and other ceremonies, the fee amount or range, and other arrangements. Please contact your local Ethical Society or the AEU to find an available Leader or inquire about policies.

Related information:

One Leader's perspective on weddings (link)
One Society's policies as an example: Northern Virginia weddings (link)
Marriage from the Heart - information and Leader's Guide (link)