Families say Sam is one of the friendliest, kindest and most compassionate celebrants you could hope to meet. They also say she is incredibly professional. We caught up with Sam; here’s what she had to say:
“ I love my work as a funeral celebrant, but I don’t really think of it as a regular job: it is more of a vocation like other caring professions, and that is exactly as it should be. I always set myself one simple question as I write and prepare a funeral service: would it be good enough for a member of my own family? - that is my test of self.”
“When I first meet a family, I don’t limit the time I spend with them- it is important to really understand what is best as each service is unique. It’s my job to figure out the words I need to write and have them fit with other items the family want to include such as family speakers, music or poetry -family choices always take priority. I am the stranger in the room at first, who listens and learns with many questions- but I also have to give many answers. I’m not so much a stranger to the family by the end of the first meeting- I’m a helper who they know is on their side.”
“ I lend all my skills to a family to help with the service. Every celebrant has different things they can offer: some speak a second language or write their own poetry: my extra skill is to make photo slideshows set to music for keeping, these can often be shown in the service too, where there is the technology. Music is really my passion in life and pictures can say a thousand words- the two together can be such a comfort, as well as being a wonderful keepsake of a life.”
“You know, I think a Humanist Celebrant can really be a great help to any family, who wants a funeral service where great care is taken in the best way to remember and celebrate. Traditionally, non-religious families choose us for funerals, but any family can benefit from having a Humanist on board. We’re not religious people sure: and worship is not a part of our lives at all, but we are also people who love, admire and respect human beings and want to do our best for them- especially at a tough time. Whatever I read or write for a service, I’m doing it on behalf of a bereaved family: I’m speaking on their behalf- and it is my privilege to get those words said with conviction."
