Civil ceremonies are the alternative to a religious service which is reserved for a church marriage ceremony. So why do we have the option of a civil ceremony, put simply, it’s all about options.
In the past if you wanted to get married you only had the choice of a church ceremony, and if you were religious that was fine but that didn’t suit everyone. Today a large number of civil wedding ceremonies take place and the location of the ceremony is something the couples decide on based on what is important to them – a place that has special meaning to their relationship as opposed to the local church which may not fully fulfil either one or both of the couples requirements.
With this in mind, marking the start of a relationship with the incorporation of rituals and traditions is achievable in a civil setting and often chosen.
This is another advantage of the civil ceremony whereby people choose rituals such as the Sand Ceremony where sand is combined as a symbolism of the unity of two lives, and this following verse describes the intention and purpose of this ceremony “Just as these grains of sand can never be separated and poured again into the individual containers, so will your marriage be”
Another ritual is the Sharing of Wine which is symbolic of the cup of life. The couple shares the cup of life and with this makes a promise to share all that life brings.
The ritual of the Stone Ceremony is not so well known and practiced today but I think certainly very symbolic and romantic. In times where people didn’t have a ring, early Australia, on the wedding day they would throw a stone into a river after the vowers were said, the meaning of this was that for the rest of their journey together they hoped the tides of time ebbed and flowed over their lives. There were various coloured stones that symbolised the attributes they wanted to draw into their lives and relationship as a couple.
A very popular ritual still today is the Hand Fasting Ceremony, the couple hold hands as a ribbon is placed around their hands to symbolise their unity and wish them a prosperous life together. This is a very popular verse said at this ceremony. “These are the hands of your best friend, young and strong and vibrant with love, that are holding yours on your wedding day, as he promises to love you all the days of his life”
The release of doves is a favourite with many people and symbolises love peace and hope.
As they pair for life and at the end of each day they return to the same home for the night.
There are countless rituals and traditions that a lovingly incorporated in the ceremonies conducted by a Civil Celebrant, giving the ceremony meaning and depth which will be the foundation for the start of a loving and fulfilling journey for the newly married couple.
Are you looking for the most relaxed celebrant? Contact Civil Celebrant Melbourne