RELIGIOUS
FUNERALS
Some Thoughts and Ideas
The Non
Religious Funeral
For many people who are not religiously committed, a traditional
church or chapel funeral may not feel appropriate - a Non Religious ceremony
may be much more fitting.
The ceremony can be simple and personal and based upon
the idea of celebrating the life of the deceased.
Music, poetry and other readings can be used. Tributes
from members of the family and from friends can also be included.
By tailoring the ceremony to the individual and to the
wishes of those left behind, it is possible to create an event which is both
memorable and unique.
A Typical Ceremony
This might consist
of all, or a selection of, the following elements:
Introductory music
The Welcome on
behalf of the family and friends
Thoughts on Life
and Death from a non-religious point of view
The Life of the
Deceased - an outline and celebration
Tributes from family, colleagues and friends
Favourite Recorded
Music as an interlude
Quiet Thoughts - a time to pay private tributes,
remember happy times and for private prayer
The Committal - the time for the lowering of the coffin
An Invitation to some
place for refreshment
Leave taking music
Steps to Take
If you are arranging a funeral ceremony for a relative
or a friend, it is advised that you act as soon as the death has occurred.
Inform the Funeral Director that you wish to consider
a non religious ceremony as soon as possible. He or she will then make
arrangements for the local Officiant to get in touch with you, or else you can
make contact yourself directly.
Judith Hall is a qualified and experienced nurse and
has worked for many years for a national counselling organisation as a trainer
in communication and relationship skills. She is also an Accredited British
Humanist Association Officiant.
Judith will contact you by telephone, and plan to meet
you if possible, to discuss your needs. She will seek to build up a picture of the deceased so that the funeral
can be as personal as possible.
Some Words of Committal
Dear
.
With love and
respect we have been remembering your life.
Your hopes and
ideals we commit into our minds and wills.
Your loves we
commit into our
hearts.
With these words
we commit your body to its natural end."
For further information:
Please consult
C. S. BOWYER LTD.
Funeral Directors
2 The Bull Pit 3 St.Thomas Road
Tel. 01225 863208 Tel 01225 768846
or get in touch with
The British Humanist
Association