FUNERALS and MEMORIAL SERVICES
              - saying goodbye

Losing a loved one is devastating.  It's a time of shock, bewilderment, disbelief and in the case of protracted illness, sometimes a blessed relief.  No matter what the circumstances, it is a time of profound change - a time to reflect, give thanks and say goodbye to the physical form we have known and loved.

This is usually a deeply difficult and painful time, which means that the way a ceremony is created and conducted will not only have a lasting impact but will make a difference in the days and years ahead, when the deceased is remembered.  

For family and friends this is not only a time to grieve and say goodbye, but also to give thanks and celebrate the life of the departed.   It is a time of trying to come to terms with change and loss. 

Where there has been a strong religious faith, the funeral service will usually be conducted by a Minister of that faith.   However, many people would describe themselves as believing in a spiritual source without necessarily being religious and this is where I can offer a service to honour that belief. 

Frequently, family and friends want to pay their respects by sharing stories about the deceased, listening to some much loved music and maybe reading a poem or passage that seems to reflect their feelings.  An Interfaith ceremony ensures that everything desired is included and that the lasting feeling is one of completion, respect and love.

For a cremation, I always recommend that where possible, a double time period is booked to ensure that saying goodbye is not rushed. 

"The New Natural Death Handbook" by Nicholas Albery and Stephanie Wienrich. 

"The Dead Good Funerals Book" by John Fox and Sue Gill  (not so accurate on the legal aspects)

If you are looking for beautiful poems for a funeral or memorial service, visit:
www.poeticexpressions.co.uk