This page provides a brief introduction to non-religious celebrations of major life events.
Atheist and Humanist rites of Life
Last updated 2009-10-22
Atheist and Humanist rites of life
Ceremonies
People often mark the major life stage events in life - like being born, getting married and so on - with religious ceremonies like christenings, weddings and funerals.
Atheist and Humanist organisations offer their own rituals for these events that give them meaning and significance without any religious content.
These ceremonies differ from mainstream secular ceremonies like civil weddings, in that they are highly personalised for the individuals concerned.
Sources for Atheist and Humanist ceremonies
A number of books containing guidelines for such ceremonies are published, including some written by Jane Wynne Wilson for the British Humanist Association.
Atheist and Humanist celebrants
Humanist organisations train people to officiate at humanist ceremonies, and compile lists of those who are qualified to do so.
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