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Special Observances

Unity Candle

The unity candle is one of most well known side ceremonies in the wedding. It is usually done with 2 taper candles and 1 large candle. The tapers are lit before the ceremony, sometimes by the mothers of the bride and groom. During the ceremony the bride and groom take the tapers and light the middle candle signifying 2 people becoming one family unit. Sometimes other candles can be lit in honor of children in the family. A unity candle in an outdoor ceremony can sometimes be a challenge. We recommend a tea light in a votive holder to be lit and on the table in case the wind blows out the tapers. A blown out candle in no way reflects on the future of the marriage.




Sand Ceremony

The sand ceremony can be an alternative to a unity candle for some couples. Containers are needed, one container to pour the sand into, and smaller containers that you pour the sand from. Plain or colored sand can be found at numerous craft stores (as well as online) or can be sand from beaches from prior vacation destinations. This ceremony can be created for just the couple or can include as many people as they desire. The bride and groom pour their two containers of sand into the vessel simultaneously. A small amount of sand can be left in each container to symbolize that although the couple is joined, each remain individuals. If desired, other family members can be asked to pour a container of sand into the vessel. There is a ceremony that is read while the sand is poured.

Hand Binding

Hand binding is also called hand fasting. It appears in most cultures in one form or the other, and in many major religions. Its meaning is essentially the same from culture to culture and religion to religion, in that it is symbolic of the couple's "oneness" and unity. The form we use is basically Celtic. We have the bride and groom place their hands on top of each other, and then four separate cords are loosely tied, each cord representing something different. We have also made a "sandwich" of hands when a couple has children they want to include in the ceremony as a symbol that everybody is now tied together as a family.

Rose Ceremony

The rose ceremony is used to thank or honor guests or family members. A rose or other flower is handed to the honored person in the gathering. Usually the reason for the rose presentation is written into the ceremony. In one ceremony, the roses were given to the co-workers in honor of a co-worker who had just passed away. Many times it is used to thank Mothers, Parents and/or grandparents for being there for the couple throughout their lives.

Wine Unity Ceremony

The wine unity ceremony. Three glasses, one empty, one with white wine and one with red wine are placed on a table. At the same time, the bride pours the white wine, while the groom pours the red wine into the empty glass. They then sip from the glass.

Honoring a Missing Family Member.

We can certainly take a moment to say a few words Honoring those who are unable to attend due to health, distance, etc. We can do the same for those who have passed away. Photos with a candle and/or flowers can be set up as well as leaving a seat vacant with their name and/or a flower. Of course, a prayer can be included if that is your desire.

Other Special Ceremonies

Baby Blessing/Naming Ceremonies

Keep me away from the wisdom which does not cry,
the philosophy which does not laugh and
the greatness which does not bow before children. --Kahil Gibran

There is perhaps no ceremony more joyous than the welcoming of a new child into the world!The ceremony is inclusive and participatory... honoring and including all significant family members (i.e. parents, grandparents and siblings) and friends (i.e. godparents, spiritual mentors)... always from the heart.

Traditional aspects of baptisms and baby namings are celebrated in a universal context. You may choose traditional religious readings, or non religious readings from poetry or literature. Creative alternatives and solutions are offered and welcomed.

Funerals/Memorial Services

Do not stand at my grave and weep, I am not there, I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow, I am the diamond glints on snow,
I am the sun on ripened grain, I am the gentle autumn's rain.
When you awaken in the morning's hush, I am the swift, uplifting rush of
Quiet birds in circled flight. I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry; I am not there, I cannot die.

The best gift you can give yourself and your loved one at the time of their death is a Funeral or Memorial Service that truly represents that individual and the feelings you have for them. I will work with you to create a unique and meaningful tribute that focuses not on their death, but rather on their life. The only rule about a Memorial Service is that it should provide a loving and positive remembrance of the deceased. Using humor or even lively music can add wonderful moments to the service if they reflect the individual you are trying to memorialize.

House/Business Blessings

Let your dwelling be one of peace that it may restore your heart and house your dreams...

Blessing ceremonies use the healing power of intention to cleanse negative energy and restore positive, life supporting energy within and about us to bring balance and harmony. Imagine a giant eraser clearing off the "dust" particles on the walls, floors, corners and the seen and unseen crevices of your home. You know that refreshing feeling of a walk along the ocean or the clean smell in the air after a spring shower? That's what you'll be doing for your home. Breaking up and releasing stuck energy has proven for ages and in many cultures to be good medicine for the body, mind and spirit.

This beautiful, transforming experience is highly recommended at any time and especially for: Relationship Transitions; Illness Recovery; Buying/Selling Your Home; Seasonal Cleaning and Manifesting Peace.

Animal Companion Ceremonies

"We are all creatures of one family ~ We are all brothers and sisters."

Friends of animals - Do you need to talk to someone about the passing of your beloved pet, or want to find someone to perform an animal memorial service, pet blessing or other related service? Would you like to connect with a member of the clergy that sees the bond between humans and animals as a spiritual one and can assist you in your time of need? If so, I offer Companion Animal Blessings which are a great way for Individuals or Pet Groups to share the Love of their cherished animal companions. I provide a Certificate (suitable for framing) honoring the Blessing of the Animal Companion as a Keepsake. We can also include Memorials to a deceased pet in the same or a separate ceremony.

Email Rev. Melanie
717.515.6699


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