Funerals and Memorials
Humanist funerals are becoming much more common. Many people today have no religious faith, and no particular religious beliefs. For them, a Humanist Funeral or memorial ceremony can be much more fitting. The main idea is that the ceremony simply, sincerely, and affectionately celebrates the life of the person who has died, and allows friends, relatives and acquaintances to express their feelings of loss and to share their memories.
Once you have arranged to have a Humanist ceremony, either through your funeral director or by direct contact, I will arrange to meet with you, and possibly others closely affected by the death. This meeting will last one to two hours during which time I will give you the opportunity to talk about the deceased so that I can prepare a tribute that ‘captures the essence’ of the person. Members of the family or friends can if they wish, participate with a poem, a reading or their own tribute. I usually ask for a copy of their words beforehand, just in case they feel unable to speak when the time comes and I can then read on their behalf.
Each ceremony is unique and flexible, however a typical ceremony will often include:
- A welcome and a brief explanation of the ceremony
- Favourite or appropriate music (which can be live or pre-recorded)
- Poetry or prose readings
- A ‘tribute’ to the deceased, mainly biographical, could include short contributions from family, friends and colleagues
- A time for silent reflection
- Words of farewell
- A brief close, which can include specific thanks and announcements.
I am always mindful that there is nothing in the ceremony to cause offence to those who are religious, and I do include a period of quiet reflection, where those who wish to do so, may offer a silent prayer at this time.
Humanist funeral ceremonies may be conducted at crematoria, cemeteries, woodland burial grounds, and other burial grounds. More and more people are opting for a direct cremation or family only mourners followed by a Celebration of Life at a venue chosen by the family.
On the day of the ceremony I will be there to meet you when you arrive and I will lead in the cortege. I will then conduct the ceremony by reading the tribute I have prepared and will also welcome other speakers who may wish to contribute. After the ceremony I will meet with the family and other mourners on the flower terrace when I will give you a presentation copy of the script to keep.
I have been trained and accredited by the British Humanist Association to conduct funerals. I am covered by their Commitment to Quality and Code of Conduct.
I live in Shipley and conduct funeral ceremonies and memorials throughout Yorkshire. Please contact me directly or via your Funeral Director.