| ~ Our Philosophy ~ |
| 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 what ever 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. 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 they proceed 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 the 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. CoAW ministers are now available Nationally In Atlanta GA please contact Ashley Carter rev@churchofthegreenwood.org In Quad Cities area of Iowa, and St. Louis MO please contact Eric Friedman rev.eric.friedman@gmail.com In Albuquerque New Mexico please contact Beth Germano bethgermano@att.blackberry.net In the Hudson Valley Area of New York please contact Isaac Bonewits ibonewits@hudsonvalleycivilceremonies.com We also have officiants in Texas, Sacramento CA, The Republic of Ireland, as well as here in New York. As the Vice President of the American Association of Wedding Officiants Pastor April has access to over 500 officiants Nation wide |
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| Church of Ancient Ways Home ~ Sample Wedding Ceremonies ~ Sample Marriage Readings & Poetry ~ Our Philosophy ~ Testimonials ~ New York State Marriage License Information Fees ~ Articles ~ Wedding Ceremony & Reception Locations ~ Contact ~ Newsletter ~ FAQ Empire State Building Valentines Day Weddings ~ Funerals ~ Videos ~ Site Map If you have not found what you are looking for try the key words below 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, Long Island, LI, L.I., Nassau, Suffolk, Queens, Brooklyn, Westchester, and Surrounding Areas Copyright © 2000 - 2010 Marie April Gismondi |