The funeral ceremony is your precious gift to the person who has died. It is a time to celebrate their life and say a final farewell with dignity and love.
If your loved one did not regularly attend a place of worship and either had their own spiritual beliefs or none at all, then you may well feel uncomfortable with the idea of a relgious funeral ceremony. Perhaps a civil funeral ceremony would be a better choice?
It is for anyone, whatever beliefs they held.
There is no set format. Each ceremony is personal, unique – as unique as the person who has died and the life they have lived. It is a ceremony created especially for them, reflecting beliefs, wishes, values and cultural traditions, whilst also fulfilling the needs of the people closest to them.
The ceremony is created by you in partnership with the funeral celebrant, who will not only guide you but also help interpret your wishes.
You may want to play special music, have someone sing a specific hymn / song or even have friends deliver readings and recite poetry. At its heart, the ceremony is a tribute which will reflect the life of the person who has died. It can be anything you want it to be within the boundaries of respect and good taste. Throughout you remain in control of the process, and the celebrant will work tirelessly to make the occasion reflect your wishes.