The Importance of Ceremony
We’ve all been there. A time in life that feels so big … so important … that the only way to truly express what is in our hearts is through a ceremony.
From the sweet ritual of candles on a cake, the pomp of a school graduation, to the stately and solemn readings at a wedding or funeral service, ceremony acknowledges life’s significant milestones.
Ceremonies have the power to heal, to connect, to share our love and express that we care. Ceremonies allow us to say, “Life is important.”
Following a death, the role of a ceremony is vital. For many, a longstanding tradition brings great comfort — a visitation, a prayer service, a Mass or other church service, and the graveside burial are rituals that bring loved ones together. Some families follow specific ethnic rituals, such as dressing the deceased, having an icon at the casket or burning incense. Other families prefer newer traditions, for instance a family celebration of life at the funeral home or scattering cremated remains in a special place.
Uniquely you
We witness the positive impact of ceremony every day. It’s no surprise, because we design our ceremonies to do just that. Our commitment to creating meaningful ceremonies is an important reason families choose us to be by their side during these moments in their life.
For some families, strong religious and ethnic traditions dictate the remembrance ceremonies. For other families, non religious personal ceremony is the most important part. They expect ceremonies that celebrate the uniqueness of their loved one and their family, and so they turn to a celebrant.
Many families combine traditional ceremonies with personal touches. We work closely with each family to provide a most meaningful experience in the manner they expect.
What is Right for Me?
As you consider a ceremony, a few questions to think about are:
-
- What are your family traditions?
-
- Are you going to follow particular religious or ethnic traditions?
-
- Would you like a funeral in church or at the funeral home? Is there another special place you would like to gather?
-
- Do you want opportunities to share memories?
-
- Did your loved one share any wishes? Are these meaningful to you?
-
- What do you especially cherish about the deceased?
-
- What is important to your other family members?
-
- What other aspects about the deceased’s life do you want to share and honour?
Funeral services typically have the deceased present in a casket and usually occur within a few days after a death.
Memorial Services may happen any time after a death and the deceased is not present in a casket. A memorial service is a beautiful way to say goodbye to a loved one, the ceremony can take place in a garden, a home, or anywhere which holds a special meaning.
Honouring life and celebrating uniqueness make ceremonies meaningful. Numerous ways to personalise remembrance ceremonies exist and we will work closely with you to ensure that all of your wishes are met.
