06/12/2023
This thoughtful article by Oliver Keens in The Independent, argues that whilst people are moving away from traditional formats for funerals, there is still a need to celebrate and reflect on the life of the person who has passed. There is a growing trend towards direct cremations where no ceremony takes place. Often they don't offer the space for family and friends to say goodbye and gain closure.
Oliver's closing words really resonate with me: "Whether it’s a funeral, a wake, a celebration of life, or even just a group of mates listening to a pal’s funeral playlist, surely no death needs to go unmarked or uncelebrated?" Even with a direct cremation, you can hold a celebration or farewell event at a venue or location which reflects the character of the person you have lost. An independent celebrant is able to create a celebration however big or small, however unconventional at wherever you choose, which provides the chance to say goodbye.
Just as there are trends in life, there are also trends in death. Research suggests the act of having a funeral is in decline, but Oliver Keens suggests there is both joy and necessary pain in the informal ways we mark death today
