Jo Jordan

Josephina Jordan - Profile

I became particularly interested in ceremony, symbol and ritual while teaching Religion at Thomas More College, a Catholic secondary school in Salisbury in SA.

On a number of occasions I agreed to conduct ceremonies for friends and relatives. During these experiences as a volunteer celebrant I recognised that ceremony gives meaning, significance and a sense of wonder to special events in people’s lives as well as a wonderful feeling of achievement when the task is well done. I chose to pursue celebrancy studies seriously by distance education at Monash University.

I see celebrancy as a calling, not just a job. I enjoy working with people, drawing on real experiences to create ceremonies which have special relevance. It is a privilege to work with the stories of people's lives, to explore symbols, music and words which convey deep feelings and invite the participation and understanding of all who witness the ceremony. Ceremony makes connections with other people’s experience, across time and space.

I offer respect for a client’s needs and feelings. My temperament is often described as patient, calm and compassionate. I have had extensive public speaking and writing experience as a teacher, debating coach, and church leader over many years.

I hold a Graduate Diploma in Civil Ceremonies from Monash University, and I belong to the Civil Celebrant Graduate Association and the Australian Federation of Civil Celebrants. I am proud to uphold the codes of ethics of these Associations.

I have been married for over 30 years and I have three adult children.
My employment has been as Librarian and Secondary School Teacher.
I have served as volunteer pastoral carer, mediator, counsellor, group leader, facilitator and storyteller.

I have personal experience of cultural diversity. My husband’s parentage is Italian and Polish and I have been studying Italian for over three years. My work and interests have brought me into contact with many cultures and traditions which provide wonderful sources of symbolism and ritual for ceremony.