Funeral Celebrant
Pauline has been the funeral celebrant
for over 50 families. Her reputation is well known as she brings a sense of peace, calm and
professionalism to those she works with. She spends time with the family and learns about their
loved one and she has a genuine desire to help the family through such a difficult
time.
Pauline’s breadth of knowledge is
obvious as she gently guides and assists the family with choices and decisions. As a recognised
inspirational speaker Pauline has an innate sense of timing, excellent clarity of speech and a
fluent command of the English language. Pauline will help you plan the perfect funeral ceremony for
your loved one.
“It was
just what Granddad wanted.”
Just immediate family: Twelve family members sat in a circle chatting. Soft music was playing as stories were told. Occasionally the group burst into laughter and this led to more lively
stories. Suddenly the tears began to spill and the love
and support of everyone in the group became even more
tangible.
A young man pulled a poem out of his jacket pocket and
began to read. He had written it about his
grandfather. Other readings followed.
The family chose to have a reflective time and listen to
Granddad’s favourite music. On the casket were mementos
from a life well lived and a photo. The occasion was intimate and safe in its
vulnerability.
“It was just what Mum
wanted”
The cars kept coming. People
flooded inside chatting and smiling. Most were
dressed in colourful clothing – some had hats and 3 piece suits. There was an
air of celebration.
Once inside the bagpipes began to sound “Amazing
Grace.” The crowd become still as solemnity and celebration
combined.
“Thank you for coming dressed in colour to
celebrate.
This ceremony was pre-planned and we are honouring every wish
that was made.”
Power-Point photographs told the story of her life to
background music. Chosen friends told meaningful stories
covering different aspects of her life. The casket was
carried out to the mighty sounds of Verdi’s Nabucco. We
fulfilled her wish – “No sad sacks for me.”
“It was perfect for our
daughter”
Her friend, a dancing teacher, danced to honour her
life. The music
was undulating and captured the vitality and creativity of her friend’s
life. Her movements were both graceful and jagged. She was
dressed in a skirt of flowing fabric rich in beautiful, vibrant colours.
The young woman had loved creating. She’d made beautiful pieces of pottery, sculptures, creative pieces made
from drift wood and natural materials. Her friends
displayed her work and shared its meaning. Another
friend sang her favourite song. It was poignant
and meaningful. A tree was planted to honour
her memory.
Planning your own funeral
Many people today are planning their funeral ceremonies well in advance of
illness, diagnosis or becoming dependant.
- How would you like friends and family to celebrate your life?
- What memories spring to mind from each decade?
- What has been the best thing about your life?
- What music do you enjoy?
- What poems do you like?
- How do you want to be remembered?
My role is to guide people of all ages through the planning of the funeral service
they really want - long before death is likely to occur. My experience and expertise in
communicating ideas ensures that the end result will be a celebration rich in personal stories that
will be proudly passed on from one generation to the next.
Usually the process is as follows:
-
The person phones to make a time when I can visit them. This may be in their homes or in
a coffee bar.
-
We discuss ideas to celebrate the person’s life. We talk about the structure of the ceremony
and I share experiences and show resources (poems, readings, music)
-
Through email and/or follow-up meetings ideas are clarified.
-
A copy of the completed service/ceremony is kept by both parties.
"Pauline guided each of us as we planned our funeral ceremonies. Now we know our stories will
be remembered long after family and friends celebrate our lives. We felt elated and relieved
after we had worked through the process".
Carmen and Bob
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