What is non-religious funeral order of service?
Non religious funeral order of service focuses on celebrating the individual’s life and legacy through personal stories, music, and reflections, allowing for a more personalized and inclusive tribute. A non-religious funeral is simply a ceremony to honour the deceased that is not tied to the traditions, rituals, or beliefs of any particular religion.
Why do some people choose to do non-religious funeral ceremony instead of traditional funeral service?
People choose a non-religious funeral service instead of a religious one for various reasons:
Personal Belief:
The deceased or their family may not follow a particular religion, and prefer a funeral service that reflects their secular beliefs.
Inclusivity:
A non-religious service can be more welcoming to friends and family of all religions, making everyone feel at ease and appreciated.
Personalisation:
Non-religious services provide a highly personalized ceremony that focuses on the individual’s life, values, and accomplishments rather than religious protocols.
Focus on the Individual:
Emphasis is placed on celebrating the deceased’s unique personality, memories, and impact on others, rather than only focusing on the religious customs.
Flexibility:
These services enable for a more creative and meaningful tribute since they give more flexibility with regard to content, structure, and their location.
What is the non-religious funeral order of service example?
Example for non- religious funeral order of service is below:
Celebration of Life for (Name of the deceased)
Welcome and Introduction
- Greetings to everyone assembled to celebrate the life of the deceased.
- Brief introduction of the officiant and the significance of this gathering.
Opening Music
- Selection of a meaningful song or instrumental
Opening Remarks
- Officiant shares a few words about the deceased life and personality.
- Acknowledgment of family and friends present.
Reading of the Obituary
- A close family member or friend reads the obituary.
Personal Tributes
- Invited family members and friends share their memories and stories.
- Encouragement of spontaneous contributions from individuals who feel inspired to speak.
Slide Show or Video Tribute
Poetry or Literary Readings
- Selected poems or passages that reflect the personality and values of the deceased.
- Read by friends or family members.
Reflection and Moment of Silence
Musical Tributes
Eulogy
- Speech given by close family and friends to honour and celebrate the life of the deceased.
Closing Remarks
- Officiant thanks everyone for attending.
Closing Music
Reception Information
- Information about a reception or gathering following the service.
- Invitation for continued sharing and support.
Acknowledgments
- Thanking everyone for their support and love.
- Recognition of any donations or contributions made.
Final Farewell
- Opportunity for attendees to say their personal goodbyes.
- Optional participation in a symbolic act (e.g., lighting candles, placing flowers).
Exit Music
Non-religious funeral order of service readings
Some non-religious funeral program readings are below:
Non-religious funeral poems:
“Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep” by Mary Elizabeth Frye
Do not stand at my grave and weep
I am not there. I do not sleep.
I am a thousand winds that blow.
I am the diamond glints on snow.
I am the sunlight on ripened grain.
I am the gentle autumn rain.
When you awaken in the morning’s hush
I am the swift uplifting rush
Of quiet birds in circled flight.
I am the soft stars that shine at night.
Do not stand at my grave and cry;
I am not there. I did not die.
“Remember Me” by Margaret Mead
To the living, I am gone,
To the sorrowful, I will never return,
To the angry, I was cheated,
But to the happy, I am at peace,
And to the faithful, I have never left.
I cannot speak, but I can listen.
I cannot be seen, but I can be heard.
So as you stand upon a shore gazing at a beautiful sea,
As you look upon a flower and admire its simplicity,
Remember me.
Remember me in your heart:
Your thoughts, and your memories,
Of the times we loved,
The times we cried,
The times we fought,
The times we laughed.
For if you always think of me, I will never have gone.
Non-religious funeral quote:
“Death is not extinguishing the light. It is only putting out the lamp because the dawn has come.” – Rabindranath Tagore
“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, still missed and very dear.” – Anonymous
Non-religious funeral passages:
- From “Winnie the Pooh” by A.A. Milne “If ever there is a tomorrow when we’re not together… there is something you must always remember. You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think. But the most important thing is, even if we’re apart… I’ll always be with you.”
- From “The Little Prince” by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry, “In one of the stars I shall be living. In one of them I shall be laughing. And so it will be as if all the stars were laughing when you look at the sky at night… You – only you – will have stars that can laugh!”
