A civil funeral ceremony is a way to celebrate your loved one’s life.  The ceremony is non-religious in content, although you can include favourite hymns and bible readings.  A civil funeral celebrant will conduct the ceremony.  With help from friends and family the celebrant can compose and deliver a tribute to your loved one.  This can be a highly personal account of the life, experiences and qualities of the loved one.  Alternatively, the tribute can be given by the friends and family.

 

You may decide to have readings at the ceremony; a wide selection of suggested readings to help you choose an appropriate one.  The ceremony can also include any music that you wish.  The celebrant will liaise with your funeral director about all aspects of the ceremony. You will have the opportunity to check the accuracy of the ceremony content before the ceremony takes place and to check that you are fully satisfied. You will also be offered a copy of the tribute to keep afterwards.

 

Most civil funerals take place in a local crematorium, but they can be held anywhere other than a religious building.

 

Your funeral director will be able to make the initial arrangements on your behalf, or if you prefer you can contact a funeral celebrant directly by contacting Civil Ceremonies Ltd on 01920 898156 or visit www.iocf.org.uk.