Unitarian Universalist Church of Olinda
news of our historic UU church in Ruthven (Kingsville), Ontario

UU Lay Chaplain Services

April 14th, 2022 . by William Baylis

I am a lay chaplain!

In my experience, there is often some confusion around this statement, so this brief explanation may offer some clarity.
Unitarian Universalist congregations in Canada have the unique opportunity to use licensed lay chaplains to perform rites of passage and personalized ceremonies marking milestone life celebrations. Included are weddings, memorials, funerals, child naming ceremonies, house blessings, beginnings and endings in all kinds of evolving life experiences.
The primary reason for the creation of lay chaplains came in a 1970 agreement. Firmly believing that all persons have a “right to their rite”, the Canadian Unitarian Council member congregations/fellowships created lay chaplains to assist extremely busy Unitarian Universalist ministers, thereby ensuring these services were available to the wider community.

The Canadian Unitarian Council of Lay Chaplains helps clients searching for meaningful rites of passage in a relaxed environment, honouring their personal wishes and spiritual beliefs.
It is equally important that attention is paid to attendees of any ceremony, ensuring their comfort while reflecting the values and principles of Unitarians and Universalists.

Working closely with each client, lay chaplains can offer guidance through difficult and sensitive situations where differing beliefs, traditions and religious loyalties may need to be discussed in an accommodating and safe space.

If you have any inquiries or merely wish to chat about lay chaplain services, you are invited to contact:

Sue Markham,
Lay Chaplain for the Unitarian Universalist Church of Olinda @ 226-350-2879.
Email: worthysole4u@hotmail.com


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