Child dedication

In many religions there is a ceremony used to welcome babies/young children into the congregation. Unitarian Universalists believe that every child brings new life and hope into the world. We set aside a special time, called simply the Ceremony of Dedication, for the community to bless the child and celebrate the blessing of this gift of life. The ceremony does not make the life of the child sacred; we believe that life is sacred inherently. When we dedicate a child we acknowledge the truth that each child's life is sacred and hold that truth in the light of our faith.

Coming of Age

Coming of age ceremonies, marking the transition from childhood to young adult, are as old as history. In our congregation we have a year-long Coming-of-Age program, which include four parts: pairing youth with adult mentors; discussions and retreats that emphasize self-awareness and confidence-building; service to the church and community; and a culminating affirmation ceremony where each youth reads his or her statement of belief.

Marriage/Union Services

Our congregation supports marriage for all couples, regardless of sexual orientation. Couples meet with the minister and design a ceremony that best meets their needs and those of their families. A guidebook with suggested readings and orders of service is available from the church office.

Funerals/Memorial Services

Typically in our congregation when a member dies we hold a memorial service at our church. The service consists of things like music, selections of prose or poetry, comments about the person and the meaning his or her life, thoughts about coming to grips with the experience of death and words about moving on. Additionally, our congregation has a memorial garden where congregants can chose to have their ashes placed.