Unusual Ceremonies
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~ Our Philosophy ~
© by Rev. April Gismondi,
founder of The Church of Ancient Ways
Rev. Isaac and Rev. April
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The Church of Ancient Ways has as
its primary belief that people share more in common with one
another, simply by the fact that we are all human, than whatever
differences race, religion and culture may imply.
We believe that the underlying truths
of world religions, both ancient and modern, are the same. There
is no conflict between religion, science, nature, secular humanism,
and the human journey.
One of my favorite quotes on this
is: "The cause of human sectarianism
is not a lack of sympathy in thought, but in speech. And this
it is our not unambitious goal to remedy"
We practice an eclectic, hands on
spirituality which embraces all faiths, spiritual paths, and
philosophies. We believe that divinity is present in all things,
at all times. We believe that everything is still connected to
and a part of the whole, valuable, and therefore should be respected
as such. We respect all paths and the human beings who travel
them. For us these seem to be simple things that everyone can
agree upon.
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The problem with modern religion is
not one of spirit. It lies in the political structures that come
along claiming to be the "only way" and then proceeding
to set up a toll booth to collect from those who wish to be on
the "right" path. This we have difficulty accepting,
after all Spirit is too big to be held within the confines of
any one religion. We believe all words and writings of true faith
and spirit mean different things to different people at different
times in their lives but share a core message of love, kindness,
respect, and ongoing progress towards transformation and the
light. To us this seems to be the real answer that best serves
the human spirit. We are all both student and teacher here. For
us it is about sharing the joy to be found in learning and growing,
not judging or condemning.
If you have found your way here, chances
are that you have a Celebration of your own to prepare for, Congratulations!
That it is your wedding day will already make it the most beautiful
day in the world. Enhancing this by finding the words to the
song your hearts share is where we can help. Rather than copy
and pasting from huge lists, our ceremonies are usually written
for you and with you. We are extremely interactive and genuinely
desire everything to be perfect for you. After all we don't really
marry people, People marry each other! We're just here to help.
We consider it an honor when a couple chooses us as their ministers.
With the right words and energy that go with them it's guaranteed
that you will feel the difference. We don't seek to "officiate",
we seek to "celebrate" your love and your life!
This site has many, many, examples
of original writings and a huge readings section. It is designed
to be a resource for couples and clergy alike. We share our works
openly because we believe that everyone should have the wedding
of their dreams. So if you see a ceremony that speaks to you
feel free to use it with or without us, but please give credit
where credit is due [usually to Rev. April!].
A Note from Rev. Isaac &
Rev. Phaedra
Since the majority of our religious
training and practice is from Nature-based religions, we would
not be your best choice if you wish a traditional Jewish, Christian,
or Islamic ceremony. That's why we started this and our sister
site! Rev. April and other Church of Ancient Ways ministers will
be happy to help with mainstream religious rites. CoAW ministers
are now available nationally in Atlanta GA, St. Louis MO, Sacramento
CA, and the Republic of Ireland, as well as here in New York.
Email Rev.
April Gismondi to contact her or these other ministers.
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Home
~ About
Us ~ Sample
Ceremonies ~ Readings
& Poems ~ Our
Philosophy ~ Thank
You's ~ Legal
Details ~ FAQ
~ Fees |
Click on the Church Banner to email Rev. Isaac
or call
845-480-5813
anytime!
If you have not found what you are looking for, try
these key words: Wedding Officiant, Wedding Minister, Wedding
Officiants, Wedding Ministers, Wedding Ceremony, Marriage Ceremonies,
Wedding Services, Marriage Officiant, Wedding Officiate, Wedding
Pastor, Wedding Pastors, Wedding Celebrant, Reverend, Wedding
Clergy, Justice of the Peace, JOP, Priest, Rabbi. Serving New
York City / NYC, Westchester, Rockland, Putnam, Orange, Dutchess,
Bergen, Passaic, and Surrounding Areas
For traditional civil weddings and other rituals,
visit our sister site: Hudson
Valley Civil Ceremonies.
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