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Non-religious Memorial Options: Humanist Ceremonies

Humanist celebrant delivering a ceremony

The number of direct cremations are continuing to increase for a variety of reasons. However, after the direct cremation process, many individuals may come to the realisation that they want to do something more to memorialise and celebrate their loved ones. So, what are the options?

 

What can you do after a cremation?

Although some individuals believe a traditional funeral service is important when it comes to honouring their loved ones' lives, choosing direct cremation doesn't necessarily mean there isn’t a memorial, it’s just the memorial isn't part of the cremation process. In this case, after the cremation, families have a range of unique options for scattering ashes that allow for deeply personal tributes.


Hosting a Memorial Ceremony

colourful memorial ceremony

There are many personal ways to scatter ashes, allowing families to create meaningful tributes to their loved ones. Aura Flights offers families the opportunity to scatter their loved one's ashes into space, at 10,000 feet above Earth. From there, they journey around the globe for up to six months before returning as rain or snowflakes.


After receiving footage of the ashes’ final journey to the stars, we often find families holding a casual gathering to watch the memorial video together.

If you’re looking to hold a memorable ceremony, you can work with a professional humanist celebrant to help create a unique ceremony.

 

What are Humanists?

Throughout history, many believed that this life is all we have, and the universe is a natural phenomenon with no supernatural aspect. Today, those who share these beliefs are called humanists. Humanists are people who trust scientific methods, evidence, and reason while prioritising human welfare and happiness at the core of ethical decision-making.


Many people in the UK live by these values without realising they align with humanism. Currently, there are many organisations around the world such as Humanists UK, aiming to continue spreading awareness of humanism, letting millions know that their values are widely shared and providing resources for non-religious people.

 

What is a Humanist celebrant?

So, what exactly does a humanist celebrant do? Humanist celebrants offer an alternative to religious ceremonies for non-religious people wishing to celebrate or commemorate key life events in a way that is authentic to them.


When it comes to funerals — or memorial ceremonies — a humanist celebrant spends time with the family, learns about the individual’s life, values, and legacy, creating a ceremony that honours and celebrates the person’s life in a way that is meaningful to those who know them. This makes the service personalised, providing comfort and closure during a difficult time.

 

What can Humanist Ceremonies celebrant do to help you?

Humanist Ceremonies celebrants are trained and accredited by Humanist UK they offer tailored ceremonies that focus on celebrating the life of the deceased. These ceremonies can include readings, music, and videos, making them deeply personal and unique, providing an occasion for family and friends to come together, share memories, and find comfort in the collective celebration of a life well-lived.


Humanist Ceremonies has a comprehensive website with a range of informative guides to planning the perfect ceremony. With their easy to use map, you can easily find available humanist celebrants in your local area to help make the process straightforward and accessible for those seeking a non-religious approach to memorial services.


Creating a meaningful and personal tribute can be a deeply healing and meaningful experience, and it is never too late to have a memorial. With guidance, planning a ceremony can also be simple. You could find memorial options and advice from a Humanist Ceremonies celebrant with ease and flexibility.

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