An Examination of the Sacrament of Baptism
Baptism is an important rite of passage. It is considered the first step that launches ones Christian walk. We examine this sacrament, looking at the meaning, the origin, and the different observances of the ritual.
Category: Ceremonies
Leading an Inclusive Interfaith Baptism Ceremony
While interfaith ceremonies are becoming more common, knowing how to incorporate key aspects from both faiths can be tricky. We share these insights as a guide to help in navigating an interfaith baptism ceremony.
Category: Baptism
Using Religious and Cultural Traditions To Influence Naming Ceremonies for Trans and Non-Binary People
A name holds implicit meaning and power, and for those in the LTBTQIA+ communities who are trans, non-binary, or genderfluid, a naming ceremony can be a powerful rite of passage, affirming their new identity.
Category: Society
Open-Air Funerals in Zoroastrianism
The Zoroastrian faith is ancient in its origins, but there are many who still practice this religion today. One of the unique practices they incorporate are open-air funerals, using dakhmas to dispose of remains.
Joshua Bassett Baptized at Well Known Anti-Gay Church
Joshua Bassett, openly queer actor, has recently been baptized at megachurch, Bethel, located in Redding, CA. This decision has sparked concern from those aware of the church's anti-LGBTQ+ practices and beliefs.
Category: Church
Get Ordained Beliefs and Philosophy
The ULC provides a home for anyone that doesn’t fit into a neat little religious box, and empowers its ministers to express their beliefs proudly – however idiosyncratic or unconventional they might be.
Category: Get Ordained Universal Life Church
Do All Dogs Go to Heaven? Animals and the Afterlife
For as long as we've had domesticated pets, humanity has wondered if there is an afterlife for our beloved furry friends. While many say yes, all dogs go to heaven, not everyone agrees with that belief.
Category: Faith
A Quick Overview of Christian Baptism Throughout the Centuries
Baptism is one of the most popular religious rites in the world - millions of children are baptized each year. Baptism has a long and interesting history, from its origins in the gospels to modern day.
Category: Baptism
Sitting Shiva in the Age of Coronavirus
Coronavirus has impacted everything, even how the Jewish community experiences mourning. In the wake of COVID, sitting Shiva has gone online, switching to Zoom or Skype and adjusting how mourners process their loss.
Category: Loss
Interesting International Funeral Customs
While images of caskets, veils, and black ties come to mind for most Americans when we think about funerals, other countries and cultures around the world bury their dead and mourn their loss in entirely different ways.
Category: Funeral