A "this is your life" ceremony involves prior research and preparation of both content and participants, a life summary of significant events and tributes in person or via audio-visual media.
Such ceremonies may also involve music, singing, story-telling, poetry, prose and could also involve dance, processions and the use of symbols such as lighting candles or using Dreams & Treasure boxes.
The role of a celebrant would be to:
- work with the Family/friends to plan the ceremony so that its form and content are psychologically and socially appropriate
- interview the guest of honour or close family and friends to create a "Life Story Album" with text and photos
- organise the development of a DVD pictorial review if desired
- organise an Appreciation Album for guest contributions
- lead and guide the ceremony through its various stages to a fitting conclusion.
A Sample Format for Ceremony:
- Welcome
- Introduction
- Reading
- Person's Story - Stories around birth and family/ historical context
- Reminiscences - Reading - Music from the era - Person's Story - Part 2 The earlier years, adventures, challenges and achievements
- Reminiscences - Reading - Music from the era - DVD part 1
- Person's Story - Part 3 The later years, adventures, treasured memories, wisdom gained
- Reminiscences - Reading - Music from the era - Photos etc - Person's Story - Part 4 Dreams fulfilled, future plans.
- DVD part 2?
- Cutting the Cake, Singing
- Toast and Presentation of Certificate, Thank yous
- Closing Reading or Ritual
- Guests Good Wishes
- Conclusion
Obviously there are many variations on the way such a ceremony may be conducted and it is certainly not essential to have all the elements listed above.
- Talented family and friends may be willing to perform in a variety of ways.
- Personalised rituals may be developed
- An Appreciation Album can be given
- Family & friends could place wishes in a wishing well
- Overseas family or friends could link in to the ceremony by "skype"
- DVD of photos and/or a variety of other aids may be created or used to enhance the occasion.
Remember though, that 90% of the effort in creating such a special occasion is in the organising and planning the ceremony, and 10% in the delivery.
That's why we say:
- Let the celebration be your gift!
- Club together to engage an independent professional celebrant to work with you to the depth you desire.
Most celebrants will offer you a variety of packages to suit your situation.
Ceremonies are usually followed by food and drink, again appropriate to the situation.
Depending on where such an event is held, such a meal could be a picnic, an BYO luncheon or afternoon tea in a community hall or a restaurant or function centre.
Please contact us if you need assistance locating a celebrant to help you create a meaningful, memorable ceremony.