Humanists Making a Difference: Humanist Celebrant Sandy Martin
Humanists Making a Difference is our regular series highlighting humanist professionals and the communities they serve. Learn more about the work of celebrants, chaplains, invocators, and lay leaders–and find an endorsed humanist professional near you–at The Humanist Society.
What motivated you to become a celebrant?
I have been a mental health therapist for a long time, and I wanted to evolve my job but still work with people. When I came across an advertisement for the celebrant endorsement in the Humanist magazine, a lightbulb came on in my mind! Here was an opportunity to connect with people on a personal level, and not immerse myself in stories that can be difficult and challenging as I do in the therapy world.
Why did you seek an endorsement with The Humanist Society?
I take this work seriously, and having an endorsement from the Humanist Society shows that. My values line up with Humanism, and this endorsement may resonate with folks who also have those values. I do believe endorsements are important in this line of work; similar to a certification or credential, an endorsement shows the person has taken time to study and practice a certain way of presenting and communicating ideas and beliefs.
Is there an event you officiated that stands out as rewarding and significant?
I was a celebrant at a funeral for a young man who died unexpectedly. It was a difficult time for his family and friends. The memorial service was very difficult, but it brought people together to share grief, memories, and gratitude that this person had been part of their lives. These services are not the turning point when survivors immediately move on. Rather the memorials provide reflection and joy about the deceased, giving people something to hold onto as they process their grief.
Have there been challenging moments in doing this work?
My challenge is the business side of being a celebrant. I truly wish to share my experience and bring meaning to ceremonies, memorials, and other events! And I realize I need to put time and effort into my own marketing — it just seems overwhelming at times.
How does your nonreligious worldview impact your work?
My work as a celebrant is to emphasize an individual’s worth and uniqueness. Humanist values support these goals, and provide a framework for it. I narrate a person’s (or couple’s) life so that others understand and appreciate the relationships, specialness, and character they offer(ed) in our world. These do not rely on religious creed nor dogma: these are what make a person human.
How do people respond (if at all) to you being a humanist? Do you often meet people who don’t even know what humanism is?
I think some people are confused — what IS a [Humanist] Celebrant? Then I have to explain the different roles I play in this work: officiating weddings, leading memorial services, welcoming babies, and honoring pet loss. Then, if I sense curiosity, I explain the approach I use with Humanist beliefs and values. I can also highlight the way it allows for uniqueness (if not playfulness) in services.