The other day, I was posed a question: “What is a misconception about your business that you wish people understood?”
"Humanist" vs. "Celebrant"
A common misconception I encounter is the confusion between "Humanist" and "Celebrant." These terms are not interchangeable - not all Humanists are Celebrants, and not all Celebrants are Humanists. Here's why this distinction matters.
What does "Humanist" actually mean?
“Humanist” isn’t a job title; it’s a deeply held philosophical worldview. According to the Humanist Society Scotland, Humanism is “a non-religious approach to living an ethical life based on reason, compassion, and tolerance.” Humanists rely on science and rational inquiry to explain the universe, rejecting supernatural explanations. This belief system prioritises equality and cooperation for humanity's shared happiness and flourishing.
Humanist ceremonies, true to these principles, focus solely on the human experience. By nature, they avoid incorporating any religious or spiritual elements, reflecting the secular foundation of Humanism.
The role of a Celebrant
Celebrants, on the other hand, are professionals skilled in creating and delivering highly personalised ceremonies. We celebrate individuality and honour diverse needs. Unlike Humanist Celebrants, who exclusively follow secular practices, Celebrants like myself can integrate a broad spectrum of rituals, beliefs, and customs - whether hymns, blessings, prayers, or spiritual elements. We also collaborate with faith leaders if required. This allows us to design ceremonies that reflect the unique values of those we serve.
Why this distinction matters
For couples or families seeking a ceremony aligned with their beliefs, understanding this difference is important, and they need to ensure their chosen Celebrant authentically represents these values.
Defending clarity and respect
I have immense respect for genuine Humanist Celebrants who remain steadfast in their principles. When my brother died, we chose a Humanist Celebrant because it aligned with his atheist beliefs.
However, I’ve seen cases where some Celebrants misrepresent themselves as Humanists to gain the ability to solemnise marriages. Conversely, I’ve noticed Humanist Celebrants officiating ceremonies with spiritual elements, blurring boundaries on both sides.
Just last week, a plumber I met assumed I was a Humanist Celebrant because I can legally marry couples. He shared that his fiancée, a Christian who believes in God, wanted prayers in their wedding. Their Humanist Celebrant shouldn’t be officiating. What’s more, they had to pay to join the Humanist Society Scotland.
The bigger picture
Humanism is not a job description but a belief system. While I am not a Humanist Celebrant, I deeply respect those who are. Clarity and integrity within our profession benefit both Celebrants and their clients. By fostering understanding, we ensure that every ceremony reflects the values of those it honours, elevating life's most meaningful moments.