Oxfordshire County Council Bereavement Guide 2024 OCC Bereavement Guide 24 | Page 23

How do you arrange a civil funeral ?

Civil Funerals

A civil funeral ceremony is for those who prefer not to have a religious ceremony . It reflects the beliefs and values by which they lived .
Each family has individual needs and requirements . Religious and cultural traditions , personal circumstances and feelings may all affect the type of funeral you choose . Perhaps the deceased may have spoken of their own preferences or left instructions .

Who can arrange a civil funeral ?

Your funeral director will have a list of civil funeral celebrants in your local area .

What is a civil funeral ceremony ?

A civil funeral ceremony remembers , celebrates and reflects on the life of the person . It can be held in a wide range of buildings and locations ; the celebrant will be able to advise you further . It may not be held in a church or other religious building but can be held by a graveside .
Civil funeral ceremonies are conducted by a professional celebrant . The celebrant will create a ceremony ( in close consultation with the family ) that is both a personalised memoir and a loving tribute to the deceased .
The ceremony will be appropriate for a cremation or a non-religious burial .
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