Virtual Ethical Society

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Leader's Study

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Leaders

In our medium-to-large size Ethical Societies, professional Leaders perform the functions of clergy in a manner consistent with Ethical Culture philosophy.  Leaders present Platform addresses and lead adult education workshops and discussions on ways to apply ethical values and principles to our lives.  Professional leaders also preside at life passage ceremonies, lead seasonal community celebrations, and empower, inspire, and support members through their ethical quests.

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Leaders preside at major life passage ceremonies: marriages, memorial services, and baby namings.  We've provided a basic description of what those ceremonies mean in Ethical Culture.  Leaders are recognized legally as clergy in performing marriage ceremonies.  Leaders are also available for memorial services and baby namings, depending on their schedules.  Contact a local Ethical Society if you are are looking for an Ethical Culture officiant.  (Policies on fees vary, please arrange that with the Leader.)

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Books recommended by AEU Leaders -- part of the proceeds go to the AEU if ordered through this link.

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In 1991, the National Council of Leaders of the American Ethical Union drafted a statement to attempt to summarize ethical humanist philosophy.  A Concept Map of Ethical Culture is available here, and includes a brief philosophical history of the ideas shared by many members of Ethical Culture, a summary of the common beliefs today, and some musings and questions about future direction as we adapt and learn.

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New! Ethics Matters is an online magazine applying Ethical Culture ideas and ideals.

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One important function of an Ethical Culture community is to support its members in major life transitions, such as the death of a loved one.  Leader Arthur Dobrin's book on grief is available online, for your use, or for a gift to a friend who is grieving:  Love is Stronger Than Death (Arthur Dobrin).

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Honoring the circle of the year -- we will continue adding seasonal materials for group and home celebrations:  a reading for the autumn season (Percival Chubb) and a Thanksgiving ceremony (Lois Kellerman).

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Steps to Seeking Forgiveness (Lois Kellerman, Don Montagna, Jone Johnson Lewis): a common challenge in everyday life is finding ways to seek forgiveness for our human errors, to work for reconciliation.  This short guide is a useful aid in the process of seeking and finding forgiveness.

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Special: Leaders Respond to the attacks of September 11, 2001, and the aftermath

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What is the Purpose of Life? A musing by leader Sharon Sarles.

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Don't miss the materials in other sections of the Virtual Ethical Society, especially the library and the material introducing Ethical Culture.

The American Ethical Union
a Federation of Ethical Societies in the United States
[Find a local Ethical Society or Fellowship]

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