|
by Gordon, Deborah A., Ed.D., UNIVERSITY OF LA VERNE, 2010, 143 pages; 3415668Abstract:
Purpose. Throughout history, marriage has been defined as a covenant that represents a commitment between two individuals. Marriage is considered the ultimate rite of passage, marking the transition into adulthood. Gays and lesbians often don't receive such validation of their relationships. The wedding is a rite of passage in American culture. From the engagement, to the shower and the bachelor party to the culmination of the wedding it is a time in which couples are able to express their love for one another in front of their communities and families.
0 Comments
Excerpted from "Much ado about gay commitment ceremonies" By Maria Puente, USA TODAY 5/16/2004
No matter what happens politically and legally on the gay marriage issue, one thing is clear: It's great for the wedding business. The surge in gay unions - and media coverage of the controversy - has sent thousands of wedding planners into a swoon over the prospect of tapping a huge new market: 16.5 million gay men and lesbians, with a total buying power of $450 billion. The situation remains fluid: Massachusetts today becomes the first state to make it legal for gays to marry, though state voters could overturn that. Efforts continue to ban gay marriage in the U.S. Constitution. The Inland Valley Voice 10/23/02
When Deborah Gordon received her seminary degree a few years ago, she had no plans to use it. But when the Pomona resident began planning her own wedding she discovered how hard it was to find someone to bless her commitment to her partner and realized she had something to offer. Gordon was ordained about a year ago by the Universal Life Church in Modesto and now officiates the union of same-sex couples. It is a controversial topic, but to Gordon and her clients it is simple. |
About the authorDeborah "Minister Deb" Gordon, Ed.D. is a graduate of the Candler School of Theology of Emory University in Atlanta, Georgia with a Master's degree in Theological Studies. She has performed over 250 ceremonies as an ordained minister.
ArchivesCategories
All
|
RSS Feed