There is perhaps no harder time that we must face than when a special, much loved person in our lives passes away.
It is an inevitable event for everyone, but for those left to mourn their loss it is a period full of grief and heightened emotions – and we all respond differently.
So how do you start planning a funeral (private or public) or memorial service to say a final farewell to such an important, loved person?
Firstly, as soon as possible, engage the services of a funeral director and a celebrant.
As professionals in the industry, we will work closely together and do our utmost to make it as easy as possible to organise everything. We will go beyond to ensure it is a unique service to reflect and celebrate the life of the person it is for, and that logistically it all runs smoothly.
As a celebrant I will meet with family and friends to learn as much as possible about the person who has passed. The stories and details I am told will be carefully woven into a moving service to reflect their life, their story and their personality.
I can also assist those wishing to speak at the service to put together the right words to use, if they are finding it hard to find them alone.
I can help with song choices and readings and suggest symbols or rituals within the service that you may like to incorporate.
The service can contain some religious content, or not.
After the initial meeting I find it best to have one main person to co-ordinate with, for ease of efficient organisation in a sometimes short time frame. Once written, I will go over the funeral ceremony with the nominated person to ensure all facts and names are correct, and to make sure it meets with the family’s wishes.
On the actual day of the funeral ceremony, I will arrive early to make sure everything is in place, all equipment is working and to be available for any last minute questions or concerns.
I will deliver the service with love and meaning and help guide and comfort speakers and mourners throughout.
In my opinion, there is no greater honour as a celebrant than to preside over a funeral or memorial service. Each circumstance, and every person’s story is different, but what does not change is my empathy and compassion or my desire to do all possible to give them the best possible goodbye.
If you need me to organise and deliver a funeral or memorial service, please reach out – I would consider it an absolute privilege to help you.
