Let us help you plan your Commitment Ceremony, Wedding, or Holy Union
(Remember this is Your special day, not ours!)
WHAT EXACTLY IS A HOLY UNION or COMMITMENT CEREMONY ? - A Holy Union/Commitment Ceremony is an opportunity for a couple to publicly affirm their dedication to each other and a loving relationship. An opportunity to ask and receive the Divine's blessing on your commitment towards one another. This is the same ceremony as is referred to as a Holy Matrimony.
Commitment Ceremonies between same-sex couples have been happening within the Christian Church since the 4th Century. Pastors in the Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches have been performing this Rite for same-sex couples since 1968, and calling it a Holy Union. The Universal Fellowship of Metropolitan Community Churches also provides Holy Matrimony (Marriage Ceremonies) of non-same-sex couples. We ask all couples to observe the same standards and respect in both ceremonies either same-sex or non-same sex.
IS THE CEREMONY LEGALLY RECOGNIZED? - While Holy Matrimony ceremonies are recognized in North America, we are starting to see States and areas accept ‘Marriage’ between Same-Gender individuals. As same-gender couples still do not have the full Federal benefit of Marriage, it is very important that you consider taking other legal steps to ensure the rights of your intended spouse. Important things to consider would include the making of wills, access to important documents or bank accounts, and in the case of an accident or medical emergency the right of your spouse to be recognized as your "next of kin."
WHAT IS THE PROCESS OF HOLY UNION? (Or a Holy Matrimony) - The first step is to contact MCC of Flint @ (810) 228-0577, and register your interest with Padre. We take seriously our role in supporting couples wishing to celebrate and to maintain their relationships in a positive way. As such we offer the opportunity for you to attend a Couples Class. This may be with other couples or individually, and seeks to offer insights and support for maintaining healthy and loving relationships. The planning of actual ceremony would be with Padre, the pastor of MCC of Flint. Padre will seek to get your input as to the content of the ceremony, and then to create a service that is appropriate for each couple.
DO WE HAVE TO BE MEMBERS OF THE MCC TO REQUEST YOU TO PERFORM OUR COMMITMENT SERVICE? - No, definitely not! MCC of Flint is a center for Spiritual Growth for all of the Greater Flint area. Our doors are open to serving people from all denominational backgrounds, genders, races, orientations, and spiritual journeys.
As MCC of Flint is a Christian church, we do pray that either or both partners requesting us to perform your commitment service be Christian. But in living our Theology of Inclusivity of all people, we will discuss each ceremony on a case by case basis with the participants. So please don't be afraid to ask us if we can help out. We look forward to serving you and giving you the opportunity to experience the blessings of our Creator, God in your relationships.
Rev. Edwin ‘Padre’ Yates , Pastor
