The American Ethical Union is now accepting applications for our upcoming Ethical Humanist/Ethical Culture Officiant Training, taking place on April 4, 2026, from noon to 3 p.m.
Officiants play a vital role in our movement: accompanying couples and families through weddings, memorials, baby namings, and other life-cycle ceremonies that reflect Ethical Humanist values of dignity, compassion, and shared humanity.
Volunteering as an AEU Officiant deepens and celebrates Ethical Culture through your service to your Ethical Society and our Ethical Culture Movement. Your Society’s endorsement reflects the service-oriented relationship between you and your Society. In recognition of this relationship, fees for officiant’s services are paid to the Ethical Society (not the officiant). Serving as an officiant allows you to represent your Ethical Society while providing a life-affirming and meaningful service to the larger community.
This training is designed for people who:
- Are actively involved with an Ethical Society or Ethical Humanist community
- Have some experience or interest in public speaking, ceremonies, or pastoral support
- Want to deepen their ability to create inclusive, meaningful, values-centered ceremonies
- Have been endorsed for officiant training by their Society
How to Apply
- Review the Officiant Training Application Checklist.
- Complete the Officiant Training Application Form.
- Submit your application by March 28.
If you are unsure whether this training is right for you, we encourage you to talk with your Society’s Leader or Board and/or reach out to the AEU Leadership Committee with questions.
We look forward to hearing from members of our Ethical Culture and Humanist communities who feel called to this work of honoring life’s milestones with care, creativity, and ethical reflection.
This training is offered by the AEU Leadership Committee as part of the Leadership Training Initiative.