In this second part of our examination of different funeral rituals, we will explore further ceremonial ways of saying goodbye. (Read the first blog on funeral rituals here.)
Memory trees
Trees can be used as a living memorial to honour the departed one. A tree can be planted at the end of the funeral ceremony, depending on where the ceremony is held. The ashes could be buried in the same spot.
Or there could be a small tree in a pot at the funeral venue. The mourners can be given tags with strings and pens to write messages of love and memory to the deceased. These tags can be tied to the branches of the tree. A close family member can then take the tree home.
Funeral rituals with wings and balloons
We recently created and conducted a ceremony where the family created a memorial of white wings and balloons. The symbolism of white wings has been recognised for centuries, embodying spirituality and freedom. Some florists are able to offer a set of wings created out of flowers.
Give out pins or brooches
Another funeral ritual entails handing out small brooches to the mourners. The pin or brooch can represent a flower in the deceased’s favourite colour or it could be a bee or a bird, to remind everyone that the departed one is now flying free.
Flags and guard of honour
If the person who died was very active in an organisation the funeral venue may be decorated with the flags of the organisation. This might be for charity organisations such as rotary, the Lions or Round Table. The deceased might also have been an active sportsperson or an ardent supporter of a particular team. The family might hang the team flag at the funeral.
At the end of the funeral members of the team might form a guard of honour outside the venue. People in the guard of honour could also be mounted on horses or motorbikes or cycles in memory of the deceased’s involvement in these activities.
Obviously if the deceased was a member of an arm of the defence force there might be military symbolism displayed.
Other reminders
There are other ways of reminding the mourners of activities that had been dear to their late friend or family member. Where the deceased had loved nature, hiking or mountain climbing, the mourners could be invited to take a short walk in a forest or in the bush. During the walk they can contemplate their relationship with the loved one and what memories the place evoked of him.
Envelopes with a coin or a sweet
Some families of Chinese origin hand out envelopes at funerals. The coins are believed to help ward off misfortune associated with death. The coins might offer protection to the living. They are also seen as a symbol of closure.
There could also be a sweet in the envelope, signifying something which will take away the bitter taste of sorrow.
Live music
There is something very special about live music played at funeral. Music is so important to many people and if the deceased had been a musician there are likely to be many volunteers to play at their funeral.
Last thoughts
Funeral rituals, with their rich symbolism and traditions, offer comfort, continuity, and a way to honour the departed. These practices not only help the bereaved cope with grief but also provide a sense of closure and connection to cultural heritage.
By embracing rituals, individuals and communities can navigate loss with dignity, fostering healing and reflection, while ensuring that the memory of loved ones lives on.
Wordways Ceremonies offers a variety of non-religious ceremonies, including celebration of life, funerals and ash scattering ceremonies. Get in touch with Vanessa today to discuss your needs.