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What is a humanist funeral?

June 22, 2023 Misc Information Comments Off on What is a humanist funeral?
A humanist funeral, also known as a non-religious or secular funeral, is a ceremony that focuses on celebrating the life of the deceased in a way that is meaningful and personal, without any religious or spiritual content. Humanist funerals are becoming increasingly popular in the UK as more people identify as non-religious or have diverse religious backgrounds. In a humanist funeral, the ceremony is typically conducted by a humanist celebrant who works closely with the family to create a personalised and respectful tribute. The focus is on the life, values, and achievements of the deceased, rather than any religious or supernatural beliefs and the aim is to provide a ceremony that reflects the individual’s personality, beliefs, and wishes.

What does a humanist funeral include?

The structure and content of a humanist funeral can vary depending on the preferences of the family and the celebrant. It often includes elements such as music, readings, poetry, personal anecdotes, and shared memories – eulogies and tributes are commonly delivered by family members, friends, or colleagues, highlighting the unique qualities and significant moments of the person’s life. Humanist funerals emphasise the importance of celebrating the person’s life, the impact they had on others, and the legacy they leave behind. The focus is on finding comfort and solace in the memories and shared experiences of the deceased rather than relying on religious or spiritual beliefs. Humanist funerals provide a space for individuals to come together to mourn, support each other, and pay tribute to the person who has passed away. The ceremonies are inclusive and respectful of all attendees, regardless of their religious or non-religious backgrounds. They aim to create a meaningful and personalised farewell that reflects the wishes and values of the deceased and their loved ones. There are organisations such as Humanists UK that provide resources, support, and training for humanist celebrants who conduct non-religious ceremonies, including funerals. These celebrants work closely with families to create a fitting and dignified tribute that honours the life of the deceased in a meaningful way, while respecting their non-religious or secular beliefs.
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The difference between a memorial and a funeral

January 27, 2022 Misc Information Comments Off on The difference between a memorial and a funeral
There is often confusion on difference between a memorial and a funeral, one is a service with the purpose of honouring the life of a deceased person with their body present, whereas a memorial service is an event that takes place when a body is not present. We’re sharing in more detail the differences and what you can expect in the differing services held when a loved one passes away.

What is a memorial service?

Although memorial services are very similar to funerals, they are usually the go to service organised when a body is not available to be present. These kinds of services usually take place when the body has already been buried or cremated therefore, the service doesn’t have to  align with the time restrictions that are in place when a body still needs to be laid to rest, this particular type of service offers extra flexibility and more time when needed to plan a service. Memorial services also don’t need to take place in any particular location, giving mourners the freedom to select any location they desire, which could be somewhere sentimental to the loved one who has passed away or simply a more convenient location like a park, or local community centre.

Different types of commemoration events

There are several different types of commemoration events that families and friends hold when somebody passes away and these can depend on religion or simply a desired change from the status quo.

Celebration of life

This celebration can be held at any time, and usually takes place to mark a milestone so a year without a loved one or a birthday, giving family and friends the opportunity to come together in any setting to celebrate the life of the person who passed away.

Committal

Also known as a burial or graveside service, this is a small service held wherever your loved one is being finally laid to rest after a funeral, and allows family and friends of the deceased to say their final goodbyes or make last sentiments in speeches beside the grave. Often people add items of sentiment to the grave on top of the coffin or throwing in a handful of dirt, which is a tradition for many.

Wake

A wake is a very common service that usually follows a funeral or memorial service, that allows people to come together to share their grief and spend time with people who knew and loved the person that has passed away. Often it is an opportunity for everyone who attended the funeral to sit down with food and drink with their family and friends to reflect on the funeral and share memories of the deceased.
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