Bereavement
A funeral or memorial service is the appropriate way to say our goodbyes to our loved ones. When someone close to us passes away it is appropriate to commemorate the life of that person.
It is indeed a time of sorrow, but the sharing of memories of the good times help to heal the grieving that we feel.
By careful planning and using years of experience, a good Celebrant can make this most difficult of times just a little easier as you prepare to say goodbye.
Pay The Proper Tribute To The Person
It is important for all concerned to pay the proper tribute to the person who has died. This tribute is brought together in a carefully composed ceremony. A selection of well chosen words and music help to bring a true reflection of the person who has passed on.
In order to do justice to this task, much time must be spent in preparation.
A Personal Service Is Critical
A personal interview with the family is needed to obtain the relevant information. When all the details have been obtained, the Celebrant must set about the task of writing the eulogy.
The Celebrant must carefully select the most relevant thoughts and sentiments of those who were particularly close to the one who is deceased.
Personal friends or acquaintances may be called upon to share their thoughts in the ceremony. Special music should be chosen by the family.
A Service With Sincerity And Sensitivity
The memorial service is then conducted by the Celebrant with sincerity and consideration for the sensitivity of the immediate family in particular.
The format of a memorial ceremony will vary depending on whether it is conducted at a funeral parlour, a crematorium or at the graveside.
In order to conduct memorial ceremonies, a Celebrant must have a compassionate heart and a natural ability to empathize with those who are grieving if the task is to be well done.
Only a genuine carefully prepared tribute can bring a degree of consolation and comfort.
Respect For The Ideals Of The Deceased
Respect for the beliefs and ideals of the deceased and the immediate family is also a most important consideration at this time.
However, the aim of a memorial ceremony should be to commemorate and celebrate the life of the one who has passed away.
So it is not uncommon to have times of reflection, meditation or silence in the course of the ceremony. An opportunity may also be given for anyone who so wishes to place flowers on the casket.
If the deceased has been involved with the defence force of their country ‘the last post’ may be played at the end of the ceremony if requested.
I would be happy to discuss any specific requirements with you.