humanist & secular style Funerals, Memorials & Ashes ceremon

The Ceremony  

Losing a loved one is one of the saddest and most difficult rites of passage in a person's life. Through the sadness and grief, we also need to say our goodbyes, supported by family, friends and the community.  Recognising a life lived well, with respect, care and love, in a heartwarming ceremony, is also a way to start the grieving and healing process, often having a long lasting  impact on all those present. It is also a way to share memories, stories and thanks for the person who has left us.  The focus is always on the loved one,  the special role they played in everyone's life, their individuality, their personality, their beliefs and what made them unique.

Secular, religious, non-religious or spiritual?

Where you have a ceremony, and what is included, is up to you and can be a blend of many elements and beliefs. I will help you create an uplifting, sincere, and respectful tribute to the person we are saying goodbye to.

Working together

I will meet with you, to listen and work with you and family or friends who you wish to be involved in the ceremony, to create a service that reflects the loved one and your wishes.  The funeral or memorial will be built on your memories, anecdotes, and stories. I will write as much of the Ceremony as you wish, including the Eulogy.  I can also help you to think about or choose readings, poems, music and I will prepare the Order of Service for the Funeral Director to print.  

There are many ways for us to make the ceremony personal and meaningful and to have members of the family involved. Whatever format, tradition or ritual you choose, and wherever you decide to hold the service, I will support you along the way and during the ceremony.

I will carry out the committal at the Crematorium, or Cemetery, or at another location of special meaning to the person and family, as requested. I am also able to attend a scattering of ashes if you wish me to.   

Digital and long-distanced ceremonies

Today's technology enables you to include family and friends who live far away or who cannot attend the ceremony for whatever reason.  I will be happy to talk with you about using technology and to work with your Funeral Director, or Venue, to help ensure the ceremony is as accessible as possible. 

Fees

My Funeral and Memorial Service fees are £250. If, following a service led by me, you wish me to attend a short service to scatter the ashes of the loved one, I will do this at no extra charge. For further celebrations following a Funeral service we would discuss and agree the amount of any additional fee.