Spirituality vs Religous Ceremonies

Spiritual. Religious. Couples come to me with many different beliefs. Everyone has something they believe in. Whether or not they wish to incorporate those beliefs is something considered when couples begin the planning of their wedding celebration with me.

So what's the difference between spiritual and religious?

I came across an article in Psychology Today which really defines spirituality very well:

Spirituality means something different to everyone. For some, it's about participating in organized religion: going to church, synagogue, a mosque, etc. For others, it's more personal: Some people get in touch with their spiritual side through private prayer, yoga, meditation, quiet reflection, or even long walks.

In regards to the term religious, I found this definition from an online dictionary site which I believe defines this word well:

Having or showing a belief in and veneration for God or a divine power, especially as it is reflected in the practice of religion. Religious implies adherence to religion in both belief and practice.

Many times, couples wish to honor their spirituality in their wedding ceremony. This can be achieved in various ways. Often times, it is with a blessing which I will say or will be given by a special person in the couple's lives. Another option is incorporating a mini-ceremony such as the unity candle or a hand fasting ceremony. Other times, a spiritual based poem may be read or a ceremonial tradition such as a Native American sage cleansing ceremony.

When there is a couple that has two different faiths, it is finding a balance to have an interfaith ceremony. This may be a combination of Native American beliefs with Christian beliefs; Christian and Jewish beliefs; or an Eastern faith in combination with Christian beliefs. There are many ways to incorporate two different religious beliefs into one ceremony.

Sometimes couples will ask to incorporate their pastor or other religious figure into the ceremony I am presiding over. Other times, a grandparent, uncle or brother may be asked to present their religious beliefs. I am always willing to incorporate any of these ideas! I always say that a wedding celebration should be as unique as the couple, all the while reflecting what is important to the couple while complimenting who they are, their values and beliefs.

Alex & Aimee 6-4-09 (Poulsbo, WA Marina)

Alex and Aimee are a couple who I served on June 4th. I recently received pictures from them and had to blog about them!
Their ceremony took place on a dock in Poulsbo. It was a beautiful evening, with the sun shining upon the water. When I arrived, I met up with Alex and Aimee and their witnesses. We walked through the marina and to a floating dock. I wasn't sure how rocky the dock would be -- Aimee assured me that she had some Dramamine on hand, waiting in the car, should any of us need it! (I'm always grateful for humor in any wedding situation.)
Alex, an officer in the Navy, and his bride Aimee, an attorney back in Texas, had selected an intimate, "elopement style" ceremony. They had plans of celebrating back home once Alex was discharged from the Navy and he relocated. Aimee had flown up to Washington state and a few days later, they married. Thank goodness our weather behaved and showed its sunny side to this out of town visitor!
Congratulations, Alex & Aimee -- may you be blessed with many, many, MANY years of happiness!