Humanist Celebrants

BECOMING ARE YOU SEARCHING FOR A A HUMANIST Humanism is a progressive CELEBRANT philosophy of life that, without theism and other NONRELIGIOUS Becoming a Humanist Celebrant supernatural beliefs, carries with it a very rewarding affirms our ability and OFFICIANT prospect: the ability to help others responsibility to lead ethical plan and enjoy various jubilant life lives of personal fulfillment OR INTERESTED IN cycle events in a way that is meaningful that aspire to the greater to them. What’s more is that a good of humanity. The BECOMING ONE? Celebrant is legally equivalent to Humanist Society prepares ordained clergy and entitled to all Humanist Celebrants to privileges under the law within their lead ceremonial observances state, including solemnization of across the nation and weddings and “clergy” confidentiality. worldwide, providing millions Interested persons are encouraged to a meaningful alternative to submit an endorsement application traditional religious weddings, online. The application requests basic memorial services, and personal and background information. other life cycle events. In addition, three references, a $40 application fee, current CELEBRATING American Humanist Association (AHA) membership and passing of a background check are required. Upon completion of the endorsement application, the Endorsement Committee will contact the applicant via phone.

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Washington, DC 20009-7125 | Application forms and additional DREAMSTIME.COM THE information on becoming a Celebrant Phone: (202) 238-9088 HUMANIST THE can be found online at Toll free: (800) 837-3792 Fax: (202) 238-9003 SOCIETY HUMANIST www.thehumanistsociety.org www.thehumanistsociety.org SOCIETY

THE HUMANIST SOCIETY Weddings Memorial Baby Services Namings

Weddings are one of the most memorable and The start of life is something that can only remarkable times in people’s lives. This unique be truly celebrated or commemorated once. time is special not only for the couple adjoining An inevitable part of life is the conclusion of it. Though many families elect to ceremoniously themselves as one, but also for their families, As an alternative to a typical funeral, more and dedicate their child’s life to a variety of deities, friends, and loved ones. Historically, marriage more families are electing to plan their loved other families may feel excluded or uncomfort- has been deeply rooted in religious beliefs. Plan- one’s memorial service with the help of a Cel- able with such a religious ceremony. Fortunately, ning a wedding with a Humanist Celebrant al- ebrant. A more traditional funeral service in a a Humanist Celebrant is willing and able to pro- lows couples who are nonreligious to be able church may not be the most appropriate option vide you and your family with an intimate and to celebrate their love for each other in their for those not deeply rooted in religion. The use meaningful baby-naming ceremony. desired way and free from traditional religion. of a Humanist Celebrant allows grieving family Celebrants work closely with you and your All humanist wedding ceremonies differ on members and friends to come together to com- family to create a ceremony celebrating the many different fronts—length, time of day, ven- memorate the life of their lost one. beginning of life. You can be assured that the ue—but they all share the same positive, per- Celebrants work closely with distressed fam- naming ceremony will allow you and your loved sonable, and enlightening mood. Celebrants are ilies to make sure that their loved one is given ones to harmoniously declare a lifetime of love enthusiastically willing to assist couples in craft- a service that honors their life in a loving, sin- and commitment to your child. This ceremony ing their own promises and vows to read aloud cere way. There is no set way to plan a humanist is also a time for parents to honor close friends, as well as special emblematic actions such as memorial service. The only thing set is that your grandparents, relatives, or anyone else who will unity candle ceremonies or knot-tying ceremo- loved one will be remembered how you want be involved in their child’s life. nies. Personalized vows help add to the unique- them to be remembered. ness of this jubilant occasion. HANDS, L-R: © RHODA BAER PUBLIC DOMAIN, © DMITRIY SHIRONOSOV and © DRAGONIMAGES | Dreamstime.com

TO FIND A HUMANIST CELEBRANT IN YOUR AREA, PLEASE VISIT: THEHUMANISTSOCIETY.ORG