Funerals are highly personal events that should reflect the personality and preferences of the deceased. Whether someone who passes away is religious or not, it’s important that their friends and family members have opportunities to pay homage and say a final goodbye. While requests for non-religious, or humanist, services have become increasingly common in today’s society, many people aren’t sure how to celebrate the life of a loved one outside of the traditional manner. Here’s how to arrange a secular ceremony.

A Guide to Non-Religious Funerals

What Is a Humanist Funeral? 

A humanist funeral is one that’s designed to simply focus on the deceased and allow mourners to pay their final respects. It’s meant to be as unique to the individual as possible, with all of the arrangements representing their character and the life that they lived. These types of services don’t include any religious traditions or connotations or references to the afterlife. 

Who Should Officiate? 

Religious ceremonies are often led by a member of the clergy, but the person chosen to officiate a secular funeral can be anyone the family deems appropriate. It might be another relative, a close friend, a respected member of the community, or a professional celebrant experienced in overseeing non-religious services.

What to Include in the Service 

Humanist funerals are flexible and don’t require the proceedings to be conducted in any particular format. As a result, the services are completely customized. However, it’s common to include an opening statement, tributes shared by those close to the deceased, a period of reflection or meditation, readings, and music. Non-religious readings may come from poetry or a well-known author, and instead of hymns, the music selection can be a favorite song. 

If you have the responsibility of planning a non-religious funeral, reach out to Porto Funeral Homes for guidance. They’ve been helping families throughout New Haven County, CT, make final arrangements for more than 75 years and can provide you with a variety of options that will honor your loved one. Their compassionate staff is available to answer any questions you have and support you through this difficult time. Call their office in East Haven at (203) 467-3000 or the West Haven location at (203) 934-5000 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about their services.