About Me…

My name is Chris Rigby, a celebrant accredited by Humanists UK. It is my great privilege to lead non-religious ceremonies on behalf of families and couples; both weddings and funerals.

As you are here, it is most probably because you are looking for a non-religious ceremony.  Whether that’s a wedding or a funeral, I will work very closely with you as a couple or as a family to create a unique and personalised ceremony just for you.

Humanist ceremonies are for people who would prefer a non-religious ceremony. You don’t need to identify as a humanist to have a humanist ceremony – although many people share humanist values without realising.

Weddings and funerals are important features across nearly every culture, religion, generation, and society. We have thousands of important moments that happen throughout our lives, but these are so special we acknowledge their special status, by sharing them with others. They also share the same elements of joy, sadness, friendship, humour, love, regret and hope as our lives are full of all of these things.

I begin with spending time with you, talking and listening to you with all of these elements in mind. The ceremony is then written; it is designed to reflect your thoughts, your memories and your wishes. No two ceremonies are ever the same; they are unique and personal to you.

​Humanism and me…

​I have always ticked the ‘None’ box when asked about my faith, I have always had a keen interest in science and therefore, struggled with religious perspectives. However, once I was introduced to humanism, I knew that it fitted my thoughts exactly.

As humanists, we believe that this life is the only life we have and that after death we live on only in the memories of other people. Humanists look to scientific evidence and reason  rather than religion for answers. Humanism is not simply a non-religious outlook on life, it takes human reason as its guiding principle, and advocates love, kindness, and support for our fellow human beings.

More than 52% of British adults now identify as being non-religious.

Becoming a celebrant…

After writing the eulogy for my dad’s funeral I understood how important it is to tell a unique story, to celebrate a persons life.  The comfort I had from writing this was immense, I couldn’t quite believe the impact. Also, my daughters humanist wedding was the most beautiful and personalised wedding ceremony I have ever attended. I decided from that point, that it was something that I wanted to do; to help families write their stories. Something meaningful, personal, special and unique.

And so I am here  ~ a celebrant.  It is the best thing that I have ever done, I feel very humbled and privileged to be asked to lead a ceremony for a couple or a family. It is a great privilege to hear someone’s story, to write it and share it with others ~ recalling, delivering and making the most wonderful memories.

The most important part of being a celebrant is that a ceremony is authentically written and delivered with integrity, whether it is a celebration of marriage or a celebration of someone’s life. I love what I do and am passionate about listening to people’s stories, writing and delivering the best ceremonies that I can.

Humanists UK training and professional network ensures that their celebrants are continuously monitored, supported and peer reviewed, with a robust feedback procedure and continuous professional development as standard practice. I am very proud to be part of Humanists UK celebrants, a network that so actively promotes and maintains the highest of standards~ see OCN Quality Mark below.

I am based in Stoke-on-Trent, but I am frequently asked to travel further afield which I am more than happy to do. 

Don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss your requirements.

Chris

 

 

OCN Quality Mark