Creating the perfect funeral ceremony

northamptonshire non-religious funeralWorking together to create
a truly memorable ceremony

Losing a close family member or a friend can be the most emotionally taxing of experiences.  There’s so much to think about.  Difficulties can arise from the most unexpected quarters, causing stress and worry, when what you need most is help and support.

Tailor-made ceremonies

This is where your funeral celebrant comes in.
A good celebrant will remember who the funeral is for – that it’s for you and the friends and family of the deceased.  A good celebrant will show consideration and empathy for your situation and will make every effort to ensure that your ceremony runs smoothly and without hitches.  A good celebrant will be punctual, efficient and keep in touch with you as the day of the funeral draws near.

In short, a good celebrant will help create a ceremony that is memorable and which sensitively reflects the wishes of the bereaved.

How a Humanist Celebrant works

Soon after your relative or friend has died, thoughts will turn to arrangements for the funeral.  You may wish to contact a funeral director, who will then recommend a humanist celebrant from their ‘list’.  Alternatively, you may decide to contact a celebrant of your choosing, independently of the funeral director.

The celebrant then arranges a family meeting with you.  She or he will explain the principles of a humanist ceremony before discussing your wishes regarding –

  • the choice of music and readings
  • contributions from family members or friends
  • the process of committal – should the coffin be left on view or should the curtains be closed?
  • any special requests

And of course, the celebrant will find out from you about the life of the deceased, to enable the writing of a fitting tribute.

In the days that follow, your celebrant will prepare the tribute and email it to you, so you can check it for accuracy.  She or he will also liaise with the funeral director regarding your music preferences and special arrangements.

On the day of the funeral

Your celebrant will check with the crematorium staff that everything is in order, before greeting you and your family.  From the moment you enter the chapel, you and your fellow mourners will be the sole focus of the celebrant’s attention.  They will dedicate themselves to ensuring that the ceremony runs smoothly and in a manner that satisfies your wishes.

After the funeral

You will receive a beautifully presented copy of the tribute – a memento to help you remember the special day.

A kind testimonial

“Firstly I want to say a VERY BIG THANK YOU to you. The service you put together for us and Allan was just beautiful and so very peaceful. It really was lovely and so many people commented later on what a lovely service it was and many people commented that their opinions on Humanist Service has opened their eyes and minds to something different – I very much include myself in this opinion.”

 

 

 

 

Find out more …

… about creating the perfect ‘goodbye’ – call me on 07703 472207