I am a Funeral Celebrant trained and accredited by Humanists UK. I live in Worcestershire, and conduct non-religious funerals in the South Midlands area. If you would like to pre-plan your funeral I can assist with that too. As with many people, I was a ‘humanist’ for many years without realising. I believe in working towards a fair, kind and tolerant society without the need for religion or the supernatural. We have one life so we need to make the most of the time we have. I have previously worked for large organisations in roles which included people management, arranging training courses and making presentations.
I always enjoyed the ‘people’ side of my work, and when I discovered I could train to be a funeral celebrant with Humanists UK, it was something I was very keen to do. Helping people through what is often a stressful and difficult time in their lives, and delivering a bespoke funeral or memorial ceremony which reflects the life and personality of the person who has died is something I find very rewarding. I also feel that a ceremony should be inclusive of all those present. This will usually mean a short period of reflection (either in silence or accompanied by music) during which those who want to can say a silent prayer.
Each ceremony is unique. I would ideally want to meet or speak to those closely affected by the death as soon as possible in order to plan a suitable way to remember their loved one. Some people will already have songs and readings they would like to have included, but if not, I am able to make suggestions. Friends or family may wish to participate with a reading, a poem, or to provide their own tribute. Alternatively, I can deliver the whole ceremony - I will be guided by you. Following the ceremony, I will hand over a copy of the script for you to keep.
I take the approach that a funeral or memorial ceremony should be a celebration of life.
