Where Will Your Funeral be?

Where will your funeral be? Just for now, we’ll set aside the fact that most of us don’t discuss this with our nearest and dearest (even though it would be rather helpful if we did), and focus instead on the choices.

First question is ‘where’? If you have a strong faith, then a religious building will be the obvious choice. Religious buildings are evocative spaces; often ancient, places that have seen all the joy and sadness of life acted out over generations. Simply entering a church is a ritual act, as you leave the hustle and bustle of life behind and move into a sacred space.

What Is An Independent Funeral Celebrant?

Today many people are unaffiliated to a religion, but still have their own beliefs. More than ever, families want individual funeral ceremonies and celebration of life events that reflect their values, culture and lifestyle. 

So as an independent funeral celebrant, my role is to help bereaved families create this personal and heart-felt farewell. I'm not limited to any belief / faith system and instead work with families to create an event that reflects the beliefs of the person who has died. 

My approach is to take time to listen, be open to ideas and compose a funeral ceremony that is moving and memorable; a tribute to be cherished always. By involving family members each step of the way (and there are so many ways in which the family can reclaim ownership of the ceremony) it is possible to create a very personal  tribute.

I trained with an organisation called 'Green Fuse', who are passionate, experienced and hugely knowledgable in making any ceremony the best it can be. Click on the link to find out more about Green Fuse celebrants.

As this blog evolves, I'll be looking at some of the options and choices available to families; signposting useful resources, as well as highlighting some inspiring stories. If you have any questions about funerals in England & Wales, do please ask...

Andrew Jackson is an independent funeral celebrant, available in Bristol, Bath and throughout the South West