What is the difference between a Funeral, Celebration of Life, Tribute, and Memorial?
The intent of each service is to honor the life that was lived, acknowledge that it had meaning and that it will be remembered, as well as to provide comfort to those experiencing the loss.
Funeral Services tend to be more traditional. The ceremonies are often held at a funeral home or church and are associated with the committal of the physical remains. It is generally followed by a light reception.
Celebration of Life Ceremonies focus on the life of the individual. It can be held at a funeral home or in a special location. Often the physical remains are not at the location, but the ashes may be present.
Memorial Ceremonies often occur after some time has elapsed since the death. Memorials can also be a bit longer and are often held on weekends or evening.
Tribute Ceremonies may be gatherings held after the death to coincide with establishing an "in memory" tribute of some kind. This could include planting a tree, dedicating a park bench, or another contribution to celebrate.
What to expect during the funeral planning ceremony process?
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We will visit by phone to confirm important details like the date, time, and location of the ceremony; the type of ceremony; and some information about the person who has passed away. If you're working with a Funeral Director, they might contact me on your behalf. This call will include questions like the name and death date of the deceased, other support professionals you're working with (a funeral home, cemetery, etc.), as well as questions like:
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We will schedule a time to meet so you and other important family or friends can share ideas for what to include in the ceremony. You'll share stories about the deceased, photos, memories, and life details. We will visit about what was important to your loved one, how to honor them, and how to include people who want to participate in the ceremony. This meeting usually lasts a couple of hours. If it is more convenient to meet by phone or virtually, I will make those arrangements. We will spend time discussing how involved you want to be in creating and reviewing the ceremony.
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I will created an outline of the ceremony for you to review, which will indicate the major ceremonial elements and what happens when. I will also connect with your Funeral Director to ensure they know what to expect with the ceremony and flow of events.
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I will create the welcome and spending time offering reflection on the values and impact of the deceased. I am also able to write the eulogy and a closing. I may also come up with a ceremony for an ash scattering, interment, committal, and any other funeral rituals that will be occurring. If we are incorporating music and/or poetry, I am happy to assist you in finding songs, poems, or readings that reflect the interests of the deceased.
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As the time of the ceremony approaches, I work more closely with the Funeral Director to ensure things will run smoothly. If there are changes to the funeral ceremony, we will coordinate as needed.
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At the end of the ceremony, I remain behind until a reception starts and am available to assist you and your family as needed.