Funeral Service
Learn about the different types of funeral services, cost-saving strategies, and how to plan a service that honours your loved one’s memory.
When it comes to booking a spokesperson to read the funeral service many people are unaware that it will save them money to pay a spokesperson or religious person of their faith directly and not through the undertaker.
Why have a funeral service?
The service is an important aspect of saying goodbye to a loved one who has passed away. It involves a speech or speeches that honours the life of the deceased and provides closure to family and friends.
Religious funeral service
To book a religious spokesperson, ask the undertaker who they use for cremation or burial service; then go directly to that person. Alternatively, visit your church/place of worship and ask if a religious person can conduct the service.
You could use the Salvation Army which normally asks for a donation. Contact details are listed under To book a Salvation Army officer.
Non-religious funeral service
If you prefer a non-religious funeral service, you could use a Humanist. Humanists throughout the UK can be contacted directly through the British Humanist Association. They can also offer religious activities such as a hymn or music of praise, provided there is no act of worship.
Similarly, Celebrants offer non-religious services that can also include religious acts in the service. By booking a Celebrant or Humanist directly, you can save on funeral expenses.
Funeral order of service
The order of service typically includes several standard elements to guide the mourners and person reading the service, such as:
- Introduction: This may include a welcome message from the spokesperson or a brief statement about the purpose and significance of the service.
- Hymns or music: This section lists the hymns, songs, or instrumental music that will be played during the service.
- Prayers or readings: This section includes any prayers, readings, or poems that will be recited during the service. It may also include personal tributes from family members or friends.
- Committal: This section typically includes the final words of farewell and any final blessings or prayers.
- Closing: This section may include a final hymn or song, as well as information about any post-funeral gatherings or events.
The exact format and content of the order of service can vary depending on the cultural and religious traditions of the deceased and their family, as well as personal preferences and requests. It is often created in collaboration with the funeral director, the officiant or clergy member, and the family members of the deceased.
Cost-saving tips
A funeral service can be expensive, but there are ways to save money without compromising on the quality of the service. One of the ways is to book the spokesperson directly. You could also create and print your own funeral service order, as this would obviously save paying an undertaker.
Direct cremation or burial skips the service and allows you to have a private memorial service with close family and friends. Another cost-saving tip is to opt for a simple coffin or cremation urn instead of an expensive one.
Planning the service
Planning a funeral service can be overwhelming, especially if you are grieving. Here are some steps to help you plan a funeral service:
- Choose the type of service you want
- Decide on the venue, date, and time of the service
- Choose the music and readings for the service
- Decide who will deliver the eulogy
- Decide on the type of flowers or donations
- Choose the pallbearers and ushers for the service
- Decide on the transportation to the service
- Choose the type of burial or cremation you want
Summary
The funeral service is one of many possible disbursements. By booking a spokesperson directly you are again saving funeral expenses, and working towards an affordable funeral. You will often find that home visits are available from each of the above service providers.
For many a funeral service is an important part of saying goodbye to a loved one. By understanding the types of services available, cost-saving tips, and how to plan a funeral service, you can make informed decisions that honour the life of the deceased and provide closure to family and friends.
