Arranging a funeral
Things to consider
There seems to be a taboo around death and discussing funerals which can make even talking about them a problem. Fear and conforming to the perceived way often run riot when the time comes to organise a funeral. Traditional funerals influence our thought and behaviour. Green Undertakings recognises that families are moving forward in their way of thinking and are looking at alternative services that have more relevance to our lives and our values today. We support families in creating their celebration of a life the way they want it to be reflected and remembered.
For personalised support and advice
1. Where the funeral service will be held
Where the funeral service should be held. Remember, it does not have to be in a church (unless you want a Church of England service). Consider that it could be held for a small gathering at home in your garden or woodland / scenic location; alternatively it could be at your local cricket or football club.
2. Somebody to lead the ceremony
Whether you need a minister of religion or celebrant, or whether you have somebody that you wish to lead the funeral ceremony. This can be difficult, so make sure they have experience in keeping their composure throughout the proceedings.
3. Where will the funeral be held
If in a church or a crematorium, decide if you would like extra time for the service as this is a celebration of a unique life. This would normally incur additional cost.
4. Discuss the proceedings
Find time to discuss what happens and where during your service ask what is the normal proceedings are (curtains open closed or automatic?) coffin remains or taken out first? Be sure that you are comfortable with this if not ask what are the alternatives. Find out the limits of what is possible.
5. Venue
Look around the surroundings and consider what is on display i.e. crucifix etc. If you do not want them ask for them to be removed or covered. Ask about lighting and music.
6. Personal Items
Consider what personal items you would like to bring in from home. Candles, a special cloth or banner to drape the coffin? Decorate / dress the coffin i.e. flowers from your garden, a photograph in a frame any characteristic personal object belonging to the person who has died. Who will bring them? When?
7. Seating
 How will the seating be arranged? Remember if the chairs are not fixed they do not have to be in straight rows with everybody looking at each other’s backs. Maybe a semicircle or a circle foe a small congregation? This may be easier to arrange if you are the last funeral of the day.
8. Music
Do you want music? Only book the resident organist if that is what you want. You may want your own choice of music, so check what playback facilities exist. For the entry/arrival it is usual to have 5-6 minutes of music, reflection and exit music normally last 5 minutes each so consider the length of time this will require in the overall service. Getting the music right is important. If you want live music, ensure time is allocated for setting up before to the service and that power is available if required. Alternative choices are available with hi – tech sounds and images, video or presentation slide show.
9. Individual Contributions
Think about individual contributions to the funeral service, such as one or two people getting up to give an address or a poem or tell a favourite story. Make definite arrangements that are clearly understood. Complete a brief running order for everyone involved.
10. Agenda
If you would like to invite everyone to do something at the funeral, i.e. gathering at the gate to walk together to the graveside instead of driving, or throwing a single flower into the grave, make sure you mention this clearly in the newspaper announcement. You will not have time to contact everyone directly. It is possible for a few to people to get practically involved after a burial by filling in the grave themselves but only if you have requested in advance.
11. Afterwards
Consider ideas for a gathering afterwards. You may encourage everyone to bring along their photographs to display on a table for others to browse through together. This helps break the ice and talk through memories.
12. Memories
Don’t be afraid to use your camera or camcorder to record this get-together. This last scene of the family album is usually the one that is missing.