Commitment Ceremonies and Renewal of Vows

Commitment Ceremonies and Renewal of Vows Ceremonies are very similar in many ways, because they tend to follow the structure of a Wedding Ceremony.

The Ceremony Itself . . .

Most weddings will have Preliminary Section which includes greetings, and introduction, perhaps a reading or two, and the presentation of the couple if desired. Following this, comes the main part, where the couple exchange promises, and usually rings.

The conclusion usually consists of another reading or two, followed by a formal declaration of the commitment or renewal, and then a certificate acknowledging what has taken place is signed by the couple, and a couple of witnesses.

Legal Considerations . . .

The major difference between these ceremonies and a wedding ceremony is that these carry no legal import. The relationship established by the ceremony (in the case of commitment) is not registered with the Registrar-General in each state.

In the case of a renewal of vows, because the couple are already married and this cannot be repeated, again, there are no legalities involved.

Commitment ceremonies are usually performed for same-sex couples, as, in Australia at this time, it is not possible to marry. So such a ceremony declares the family and friends the serious intent of those making their commitment.

This is not always . . . I recall a commitment ceremony for life made by a man and woman not so long ago . . . they simply did not want to be involved in the legalities of a wedding.

When might we have such a ceremony?

Renewals of vows tend to occur on special anniversaries . . . 10, 15, 20, etc years. One of the very special ones that I remember was a 50th wedding anniversary . . . where the couple were surrounded by their children, their grandchildren, and even a couple of great grandchildren. But they can be done at any time desired.

Commitment ceremonies can take place at any time that suits the couple.

As with weddings, these ceremonies are usually quite emotional occasions, and quite special, as people acknowledge and celebrate their relationship.

Wedding
Naming Ceremonies
Funerals and Celebrations of Life