Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a Lay Chaplain and an Officiant?
“Officiant” is the term for anyone licensed by the government of Ontario to perform wedding ceremonies. The term “Lay Chaplain” is used by Unitarian congregations in Canada for members who have been invited by their community to serve the public through creating and officiating rites of passage. All Lay Chaplains receive specialized training to perform these ceremonies from the Canadian Unitarian Council. Throughout their term, Lay Chaplains continue to participate in workshops with their colleagues.
2. Is a Lay Chaplain/Officiant a Minister?
No. Canadian Unitarian lay chaplains/officiants are members of congregations who receive special training overseen by the Canadian Unitarian Council to perform rites of passage, followed by a year of mentoring with a senior officiant/lay chaplain. Unlike ministers, they do not hold a university degree in theology, the “Masters of Divinity”. Lay Chaplains take additional training annually and are subject to performance reviews by members of their congregation.
3. Do we need to be members of the Unitarian church for your officiant to marry us?
No. Unitarians in Canada have a long history of providing services to people who do not belong to any church or religious group and to couples who have different backgrounds.
4. Do you require a marriage prep course?
No, we do not require couples to complete a marriage prep course.
5. Do Unitarian officiants perform interfaith marriages?
Yes. Unitarianism is not only tolerant of other religious beliefs and traditions; we are accepting of them and draw upon many faith traditions as sources of wisdom and inspiration. Our officiants can make suggestions for blending the poetry, rituals and beliefs of diverse spiritual backgrounds into a single coherent service, We work alongside priests, rabbis, or other clergy as appropriate and desired for your wedding. We are inclusive and non-discriminatory with regards to religious practices and gender.
6. Can we speak with an officiant before we reserve?
Yes. Whether your inquiry is by phone, through our “Contact Us” section, or by email, our Officiant Coordinator will refer your query to an officiant who will respond with further information. If you are interested in speaking with us, a meeting will be arranged to answer your questions and discuss your service. Meetings can be arranged at a mutually convenient café, or the officiant’s home. If after meeting your officiant you decide to reserve their services, your booking is confirmed with a non-refundable deposit.7. How long does a typical wedding ceremony last?
Most ceremonies take approximately 20 minutes, but they might be longer depending on your choice of music, readings or other rituals (for example Celtic hand-fasting; water, wine, or sand ceremony). Please ask us for suggestions.
8. Can we be married wherever we choose?
Generally yes. Our officiants are licensed to perform weddings in Ontario and have done so in public parks, backyards, restaurants, banquet halls, religious venues, etc. Check with your officiant at your first meeting if you have a specific site in mind.
9. Can our ceremony be performed on any day of the week?
Yes. Your date will be matched with an officiant from our congregation who is available on that day.
10. May our pets be part of the ceremony?
Generally there is no restriction on including pets unless the ceremony is performed at a location where animals are not permitted.
11. What is your fee?
Please refer to our fees .
