Announcements

Coronavirus Update #2

As we enter the third week of distancing ourselves from each other, it is becoming clearer that we’re in this for the long haul. There will not be a quick fix, and how we navigate our new normal will affect our own personal health and safety, as well as that of our loved ones and community.
This pandemic is testing our resolve, and that of our communities. Marriage officiants must confront this reality and consider multiple factors.

Physical safety and community health

Whether it is our own personal health, or that of our loved ones, safety must come first. Similarly, recognizing our personal responsibility to limit the spread of this deadly virus is critical. Content on our COVID-19 resources page is continuously being updated and has links to reputable sources with information.

Performing marriages

We recognize that some marriages are essential. Accessing health insurance coverage is a benefit that for many can only be secured through marriage. This need will only increase as millions lose their job because of this crisis. Military deployments and legal rights that come through marriage are other reasons. Our lives feel uncertain, and the pandemic is forcing people to confront their mortality. Marrying one’s love can give a huge sense of comfort and alleviate anxiety about the future.
For marriages to take place during Stay Home orders, there must be an acknowledgement and coordination between state and municipal governments, and officiants who are able and willing to perform them. See JPus’ article about closed town buildings that has state-by-state information. We also have 5 Things to Do if performing weddings during this time. Not to be repetitive, but the COVID-19 page is the centralized hub for up-to-date information.
You may also choose to let your couples know about findaJP’s new COVID-19 page which has resources specifically for them.

Staying Connected

I’ve been reading about different ways to think about social distancing. A better term is physical distancing, because that is what we all must do. Nonetheless, maintaining our social connections is imperative, for our own well-being, and to help us navigate these challenging circumstances. This Friday, April 3rd, JPus is hosting our first members-only Zoom happy hour! It will be held from 6:00-7:00 EST. We’ll start with Q&A, so you can ask questions of the JPus team and fellow officiants, and of course networking too. Details and login information are available on this page. Please note that because it is for members only, you must be logged into JPus to access the information on the page.
Please know that JPus continues our work to support you during these unprecedented times.
Be well and safe,
Loretta Jay
JPus Managing Member

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Coronavirus Update #1

Rapidly Changing Situation

Updated 3/31/2020
We are facing unprecedented times. The collective good of our community, and our country, depends on the actions of the individual. We must Flatten The Curve. At this critical juncture, our movement – or lack of movement will determine how the coronavirus spreads. The gravity of the situation is clear. Governors are taking drastic measures, ordering the closure of municipal offices and dining-in establishments. Some wedding venues have taken the initiative to reschedule bookings.
JPus’ previous member support article is already outdated. It was written with the expectation that we would be able to continue to perform weddings, albeit on a smaller scale. We now must look beyond our own desires, or those of our couples, and think about the common good.
For now, we at the Justice of the Peace Association encourage all officiants to work with their couples to reschedule ceremonies. Even our previously suggested social distancing options seem unwise.
If a couple is determined to move forward, and the officiant is willing, consider an outdoor spot, with just the couple and officiant. Perhaps a fourth person to video or livestream the event. Of course, everyone should be healthy, and all parties should follow the CDC guidelines, including maintaining the six-foot rule (except for the couple).
We hope that these extreme measures will be short-lived. But until this crisis is under control, let’s err on the side of caution and defer to the experts. We should all heed the health policy leaders’ advice and stay home.
Be well and safe,
Loretta Jay
Managing Member

Related Links

★ More officiant related support on JPus’ coronavirus landing page
★ Be a part of the coronavirus-management conversation with fellow officiants in JPus’ members-only Facebook group
★ Virtual happy hour, Friday, April 3, 2020 at 6:00pm EST. Members only Zoom networking and Q&A
★ Follow JPus’ Facebook page for related news and updates

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Webinar for Officiants

Spotting Signs of Forced & Child Marriage & Human Trafficking – The Role of Marriage Officiants in the United States

Webinar: April 7, 2020, 12:00 – 1:00 pm EST

The first-of-its-kind training for officiants to recognize marriages where there are victims. Marriage officiants are on the front lines of child marriage, forced marriage and human trafficking. Learn the signs, and know what to do if encountered. Learn more and register for our webinar.

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NH lay officiant bill fiscally flawed

Ways and Means Committee Hearing

JPus continued its opposition New Hampshire’s House Bill 1599, which would permit special marriage officiants. The House Ways and Means Committee will consider testimony on the bill on March 4, 2020. As a result, JPus presented testimony to all members of the Committee. Read more.

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Maine raises age to wed

Children must be 16 to marry in Maine

Not quite what we were hoping for, but a step in the right direction. The minimum age to marry in Maine is now 16. Prior to this new law going into effect on January 1, 2020, any child, no matter how young, was allowed to marry if their parent and a probate judge approved.

• Read more about JPus’ work to end child marriage
• Stay current with other changes to marriage laws 

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