LAY CHAPLAINCY

Lay Chaplains perform many types of rites of passage, but most often, weddings, memorials, and child naming/parent dedication services. They officiate these services primarily for people who are not associated with our congregation, but can serve our members as well. Lay Chaplains take intensive training to be appointed and additional advanced training courses during their time as a Lay Chaplain.  They are responsible to the minister who, with the Lay Chaplaincy Committee, ensures ongoing performance observation and coaching. The Unitarian Lay Chaplaincy Program is a uniquely Canadian program established by the national Canadian Unitarian Council.  A national Lay Chaplaincy Committee sets standards for the program and develops and conducts ongoing professional development through courses and workshops.
For more information about the CUC Lay Chaplaincy program, visit the Canadian Unitarian Council website.

OUR LAY CHAPLAINS

Lisa Boulay
Lisa has been a member of the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa since 2018 and has quickly become involved in many aspects of the Congregation.  She is a retired Family Counselor who for twenty years provided both individual and group counseling. In addition, she has developed and delivered several workshops and training programs on substance use, mental health, trauma and recovery. Before becoming a counselor, Lisa worked in the corporate environment and brings a background in training/course design, and communications to her work.  Currently, Lisa is a facilitator for the Ottawa Pastoral Care Training Program.  Lisa is also a Reiki practitioner and certified Yoga teacher. 
 As a Lay Chaplain Lisa is happy to offer her talents and abilities to support you in creating a meaningful and sacred ceremony to celebrate with reverence, compassion and gratitude the rites of passage and milestones of your life.

Guy Belleperche
Guy is an engineer by education, a pragmatic idealist by temperament, a husband, father, retired public servant, resident of Ottawa since 1989, and a part of the FirstU community since 2004, where has volunteered as a sexuality educator, youth advisor, worship associate, and member of the board of directors.
As a Lay Chaplain, Guy will work with you to create a rite of passage (wedding, memorial service, celebration of life, naming and dedication service) that matches your needs and expectations.