Memorials and Celebrations of Life

Memorial and celebration of life services for loved ones are a beautiful and meaningful way to pay final respects to the dearly departed. Humanist funerals and memorials do not invoke the blessing of any deity or church. Instead, they honour the deceased with a dignified and deeply personal way that commemorates the uniqueness of that loved one's life, personality, and legacy. 

The sharing of poems, readings, songs, and personal stories from family members, friends, classmates, or colleagues, are all encouraged.

Memorials are not limited to human beings however. Grief over the death of a pet can be just as intense as grief over the death of a human family member or friend. Pets play integral roles in our lives, and their loss is profoundly felt. A memorial service for a beloved cat, dog, or other pet, acknowledges the depth of the bond between the pet and their owner, validating the significance of that relationship and the emotions involved. Such memorials can offer a sense of closure, a structured way to process the emotions associated with the loss, and can help owners find comfort and support in the company of others who understand their pain.

Memorial services for pets can also help raise awareness about animal-related causes, such as pet adoption and animal welfare, and can serve as a positive way to channel grief into advocacy for the well-being of other animals.

Katherine Dimou, B.A., M.B.A., WPICC
Licensed Marriage Officiant & Event Specialist
LifetimeCeremonies@gmail.com
www.LifetimeCeremonies.ca