Celebrating a life to remember
A Humanist Funeral centres upon the celebration of a life. It gives family and friends an opportunity to remember the time spent with the person who has died. It is empathic and inclusive as it honours that person.
However long a person’s life is, days or decades, they will have touched the hearts of those around them. When they die, they will leave behind them yet another story, a story which needs to be told, a life which needs to be celebrated.
A meaningful ceremony
for someone dear
A humanist funeral is a special time to say farewell to a beloved relative or friend. The ceremony contains stories about that person gathered from family and friends. It also contains readings and reflections. Often, the ceremony includes music, songs and poetry. These elements embody the feelings of sorrow and joy that are attendant at any funeral as they celebrate the life that is being honoured.
Less worry during a difficult period
The death of a loved one is a difficult period, but I can help alleviate the worry around organising a meaningful funeral. When I write a ceremony for a humanist funeral, I spend time with the family and friends of the person who has died, to gather stories and impressions. I’ve also had the privilege of meeting with people who are terminally ill, and creating a ceremony that aligns with their wishes. Occasionally, I’m contacted by a family who knows their loved one is dying. I work with them to create a ceremony which honours their family member and allows them the time to concentrate on that person instead of the stress of arranging a funeral.
Memorial Services
As human beings we have a need to acknowledge and pay homage to those who have passed on. We need to take time to celebrate the lives of relatives and friends. To share with each other the wonderful qualities of those who are no longer with us. We need to salute the passing of a member of our close community. We like to share stories, to reflect on their impact on our lives, to shed our tears and share our laughter. A memorial ceremony allows us that opportunity.
Due to the restrictions surrounding funerals we have been denied this opportunity and many families are aware of not only the loss of a relative or friend but also the lack of closure these restrictions have imposed on us. We have a need to say farewell properly.
Working with relatives and friends, Geraldine will facilitate the putting together of a ceremony which reflects and celebrates the life of a family member or friend. With stories, music, poems and appropriate reflections we will say a fond farewell to a beloved member of our tribe.
Saying farewell
No matter the circumstances, the final script for the humanist funeral ceremony will be filled with memories and stories that reflect the life being celebrated. You can simply call me to discuss the matter at any time.