A humanist funeral is a celebration of life ceremony focused primarily on the deceased with no mention of religion or God.
A humanist funeral service is often held by a humanist celebrant who, according to humanist.uk, have to be qualified and accredited by Humanist UK.
The humanists define “Humanism” as people who: consider themselves atheist or agnostic, makes ethical decisions based on reason and believed that human beings can act to give their own lives meaning.
A humanist celebrant will often cost more for a service than a civil celebrant as they have to make a payment to the humanist organisation for each service carried out. The content of a humanist service is very strict, as no mention of religion. God and hymns are included., this includes checking the lyrics for each song to make sure there are no mentions. A less strict approach for a non-religious service could be given from a civil celebrant where they can do a mix of religious and non-religious aspects in the service.
A humanist funeral service can be held anywhere that is not a church or place of worship to any religion, but commonly a service will be held at a crematorium, cemetery, or natural burial site This does not mean they are limited to these venues.
For further information regarding a humanist funeral please see www.humanists.uk
Arranging a humanist funeral service is no different to the arrangement of any funeral the only difference being the celebrant and fees. The funeral director should be able to tailor the funeral to your needs and desire.
