With changing attitudes towards funerals and religious beliefs, more people are choosing to have a non-religious funeral for their loved one. A non-religious funeral, also known as a humanist funeral, focuses on celebrating the life of the deceased without following any religious traditions.
Here at Joseph A. Hey & Son, we have extensive experience in helping plan both religious funerals and non-religious funerals. Our supportive funeral directors are there to help the family of the deceased celebrate his or her life in the most meaningful way possible.
If your loved one didn’t have any religious beliefs, or you feel a non-religious funeral is the most fitting way to say goodbye, this guide will help you understand what’s involved in arranging a humanist funeral.
What is a Non-Religious Funeral?
A non-religious funeral is a type of funeral ceremony that doesn’t include any religious elements such as prayers, hymns, or readings from religious texts. Instead, a non-religious funeral service focuses on remembering the life of the person who has died, their personality, achievements, and the memories shared by those who knew them.
Non-religious funerals are also known as humanist funerals, and they offer a more personalised approach to the traditional funeral service. They can be tailored to reflect the individual’s beliefs, values, and interests, making them a popular choice for those who want a funeral that truly captures the essence of their loved one’s life.
What Happens at a Non-Religious Funeral?
A non-religious funeral service could be held anywhere, unlike a traditional funeral which typically takes place in a church or crematorium. Popular venues for a non-religious funeral include:
- Natural burial grounds
- Woodland burial sites
- The deceased’s home
- A community centre or village hall
- A location that held special meaning for the person who has died
The format of a non-religious funeral is often similar to a traditional religious service, with music, readings, and eulogies from family and friends. However, the content of the ceremony will be focused on the life of the deceased, rather than religious beliefs or traditions.
A typical non-religious funeral service may include:
- Welcome and introduction from the celebrant or family member
- A few words about the person who has died
- Readings of poetry or prose
- Eulogies from family and friends
- Music that was meaningful to the deceased
- A moment of reflection or silence
- The committal (if the funeral is a cremation)
- Closing words from the celebrant
One of the benefits of a non-religious funeral is that it can be highly personalised to reflect the life and personality of the deceased. You can choose music, readings, and even the dress code to create a unique and meaningful ceremony.
Who Can Conduct a Non-Religious Funeral?
Anyone can conduct a non-religious funeral, but most people choose to use a humanist funeral celebrant. A humanist celebrant is someone who is trained in creating and conducting non-religious ceremonies, and they will work with you to create a personalised funeral service that reflects your loved one’s life and values.
If you decide to arrange a non-religious funeral without a celebrant, you could ask a family member or friend to lead the service. This is known as a family-led funeral, and it can be a very special way to say goodbye to your loved one.
Alternatively, you may wish to use the services of a funeral director who can help you plan and arrange the non-religious funeral service. At Joseph A. Hey & Son, our experienced funeral directors can assist you in creating a meaningful humanist funeral that celebrates your loved one’s life.
In many cases, people choose to use a combination of the above – with funeral directors organising a funeral and a celebrant leading the memorial service.
Choosing Readings and Music for a Non-Religious Funeral
When it comes to choosing readings and music for a non-religious funeral, the options are endless. You can select pieces that were meaningful to your loved one, or that reflect their personality and interests.
Some popular non-religious funeral readings include:
- “Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep” by Mary Elizabeth Frye
- “She Is Gone” by David Harkins
- Excerpts from books or poems that were significant to the deceased
You can also include non-religious music in the funeral service, such as:
- Classical pieces like “Nimrod” from Elgar’s Enigma Variations
- Contemporary songs that held meaning for your loved one, such as “Into My Arms” by Nick Cave
- Instrumental versions of the deceased’s favourite songs, which can be a great way of remembering without being overly distracted by the words
Remember, a non-religious funeral is all about creating a ceremony that is authentic to the person who has died. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box when it comes to choosing readings and music. Instead, focus on the person you have lost and wish to remember and celebrate.
What Should You Wear to a Non-Religious Funeral?
The dress code for a non-religious funeral can vary depending on the wishes of the deceased and their family. Some people choose to have a more relaxed dress code, while others prefer traditional funeral attire.
If you are unsure about what to wear, it’s best to ask the family or check the details in the funeral notice. Generally, smart and respectful clothing in subdued colours is appropriate for most funerals, whether religious or non-religious.
Arranging a Non-Religious Funeral with Joseph A. Hey & Son
If you are considering a non-religious funeral for your loved one, Joseph A. Hey & Son can help. We have years of experience in arranging humanist and non-religious funerals, and we can guide you through the process of creating a unique and meaningful ceremony.
Our compassionate team will take the time to understand your loved one’s life, personality, and wishes, and help you create a non-religious funeral service that truly celebrates their memory. We can assist with all aspects of the funeral, from choosing a venue and celebrant to selecting readings and music.
We also offer a range of alternative funeral options, such as green funerals and woodland burials, which may be suitable for those who want an eco-friendly or nature-focused send-off.
If you would like to discuss arranging a non-religious funeral with Joseph A. Hey & Son, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We are here to support you every step of the way, and ensure that your loved one’s funeral is a fitting tribute to their life.