About the Service
There are many details involved in a funeral service.
Who Can Lead The Service?
Many families choose their local priest or minister to conduct the service. The pastoral and spiritual support provided is greatly appreciated by the family at this time.
Or perhaps the person who has passed away had a friend, civil celebrant or someone else in mind. We can help you to arrange this type of service or, if you prefer, you can organise the format of the service yourself or with the help of friends and family.
Most ceremonies take the form of the spoken word. Some may include religious rituals, prayers and readings or verse poetry with family and friends taking part and usually a eulogy - a sharing of the life story and memories of the person.
Placing the Funeral Notice
Funeral notices in the local or other newspapers are a convenient way to inform the wider community of the death of the person. We will help you with the wording and then place the notices on your behalf. The funeral notice lets people know the details of the funeral, whether flowers are welcome or donations to a charity preferred and allows you to include special messages.
In the case of a private funeral, a death notice is usually placed after the funeral service to inform the community. In country areas, often a radio notice is a useful way to inform family and friends.
Please feel free to ask us for advice on the style and wording you desire.
Your Choice Of Music
Usuallly music is a very important part of the ceremony. It can add to the mood of the service or can convey a special theme or message. It can include singing of hymns and songs by the mourners.
Recorded music is often played and live music of all types is available. Some churches have strict guidelines about the type of music permitted and you must check with the minister regarding this.
We have an extensive music library and may be able to help provide just the piece of music you are looking for, please ask for advice or you may consider using music from the person's own collection of music.
Service Leaflets
An "Order of Service" leaflet can be very helpful for mourners and can also be sent out to people who can't attend. It outlines the service, contains the words of the hymns, poems and other elements which make the service special and memorable.
Many families include a photo of their loved one on the front cover however if you would prefer, you may choose a religious symbol or alternative graphic such as a rose or tree.
We would be pleased to help you organise these leaflets.
Pallbearers
Usually six pallbearers are needed to carry the coffin. You may like to ask relatives or friends to help. It can be a good way of giving others an opportunity to be involved on the day and is considered an honour.
We will be pleased to offer help and advice beforehand and on the day.
Memorial Books
We have a selection of Memorial Books to choose from. This can be used to list all of those who attend the service and the flowers that have been received.
We place the relevant pages from the book at each entrance and invite people to sign as they arrive or leave.
Memorial books provide an opportunity to keep together a collection of momentos from the funeral, cards from the flowers, copies of the newspaper notice and an order of service.
If you have any further questions about these particular services, please don't hesitate to contact Australian Heritage Funerals.
