November with the Norfolk Humanists

From the Norfolk Humanists:

Clive Lewis (pictured above left, with members), Labour Parliamentary Candidate for Norwich South, prompted a lively discussion on 'Progressive' politics pointing out that the word 'Progressive' is often used carelessly by Parties to denote a new era for the body politic. 

What the substance of that 'era' might be tends to get lost in the realities of economic pressures and an obsession with private funding, which appears to be the only answer to all our ills. 'Progressive' is certainly a word that means different things to different people, so perhaps it would be better not to use it at all. 

The presence of a new Labour candidate prompted members to examine the 'Blair' era and discuss why voters had become disillusioned with party politics and politics in general.  

Clive was the first person in his family to go to University where he studied economics and has worked as a BBC journalist. We talked about whether economists were effective advisers and whether they now hold any validity following the biggest economic crash most of us have experienced in our lifetime. We naturally talked about Government funding of faith schools and selection procedures, as well as the many private funding initiatives that seem to be taking over every social/civic function in our society and where accountability and transparency seem sadly lacking. 

As humanists we want to see a fair, equal, humane and tolerant society with all its members making a contribution to that aim.

The Norfolk Humanists said a fond farewell to Vince Chainey (pictured above) who was one of the founding members of the Norfolk Secularist and Humanist Group. Vince is moving away from Norfolk.

As a Celebrant Vince conducted over one thousand celebrations. The Norfolk Humanists thanked Vince for all his hard work both as Chairman and as a member. Vince will be much missed. 

The Norfolk Humanists in the New Year

January 2014 

We will be starting off the new year (January meeting) with a presentation from our local Celebrants who conduct Humanist weddings, funerals and birth ceremonies. 

If you are contemplating a Humanist wedding you may be interested in getting some ideas for your ceremony from an experienced Humanist Celebrant. When it comes to the final exit, you may have your own ideas about how this should be conducted; perhaps as an alternative to the impersonal funeral service frequently experienced. Celebrants can help you prepare. Finally, the birth of a new born is a very special occasion and a Celebrant can help you organise a non-religious naming ceremony. 

Further details can be found on the Ceremonies page.