Don’t be afraid to ask
Questions
Things you may have thought of or things you may want to know
What is the purpose of a funeral or memorial service?
To say goodbye to someone who has died. By holding a service, you create a sacred space to acknowledge the person, remember them, share thoughts and feelings with others who knew them and say a final goodbye to send them on their way to whatever you believe follows after death.
Who is the funeral for?
There is not a definitive answer to this question, everyone will have their own views, feelings and answer to this. The funeral or memorial service is written for the person who has died and should reflect them authentically but the actual event is for the living. By creating a safe place to share their loss, express thoughts and feelings and have the life of the person who has died witnessed, this is a really important part of the grieving process. A Funeral or a Memorial service doesn’t have to be held at a Crematoria or a Church. You do not need a license to hold a funeral service or memorial somewhere else. As long as the building is fit for purpose to host a gathering of people and if you are bringing a coffin, it can fit through the doors, you can host a service there.
Funerals/Memorials, what’s the difference?
A funeral service is when the deceased/body of the person who has died is present in a coffin or casket.
A memorial service has the same structure as a funeral ceremony but takes place after the body has been committed. (Buried or cremated)
A memorial service provides the opportunity for family & friends to gather and honour the person who has died. It can be as formal or informal as needed and can take place at any time after death.
A memorial service could be held in place of a funeral, for example;
If the person who has died didn’t want a funeral.
If a person is unable to attend the actual funeral.
If people cannot gather at the time of death but decide to do so at a later date or on a significant date such as a birthday or wedding anniversary.
Following a cremation, to mark the scattering or interring of the ashes.
A memorial service can be held if the person who has died has arranged or requested a direct cremation.
A memorial service can also be held on a significant date, such as a birthday or wedding anniversary, and be conducted to celebrate the life that has ceased.
This can take place at any time and could be held in addition to a funeral.
Why would you choose a Memorial Service instead of a Funeral?
If the person who has died has booked or requested a direct cremation, a funeral service cannot take place.
If cost is a factor, you may find that holding a Memorial Service instead of a Funeral Service could save you money.
If you would like a service at a venue different than a Crematorium,
If you would like a service in the evening or on a weekend.
Do you still have a question?
If you have any other queries, feel free to contact us.