While many people are familiar with memorial services, celebration of life services is a little less well-known. Although both of these ceremonies pay tribute to a lost loved one and are similar in many ways, each is unique it’s in its overall feel and mood. Today we are going to look at each of these services a little deeper so that you can better decide which service may be more appropriate for you and your family after your loved one’s cremation services in Tigard, OR.
A memorial service is a very common event to hold after a cremation. During this service, the ashes of the deceased may or may not be present in an urn. This service most closely resembles a funeral in that it is a more somber and solemn event.
During this service, there is typically an officiant who will oversee the flow and order of the service. The actual service will start with a welcome and then move the service along to prayer readings, music selections, eulogies, and finally, a closing.
Memorial services can be religious or secular in nature and take place in locations such as funeral homes, churches, family homes, or other event spaces.
A celebration of life service is very similar to that a memorial service in that there is typically an officiant who will oversee the event and order of service. Also, the elements of the service may be very closely related to that of a memorial service with it including a welcome, prayers or readings, music selections, and eulogies.
The main difference between a celebration of life event and a memorial service is the overall tone and mood of the event. Whereas a memorial service is more solemn in nature, a celebration of life event is just that; a celebration. These events focus on celebrating the life of the deceased rather than the grieving or religious process. Therefore, these services may feel more happy and joyous and feel more like a party.
Because these services are more upbeat and celebratory they can be found being held in all types of locations from funeral homes and churches to restaurants, parks, backyards, and more.
Some families may know right away which type of service they would like to have for their loved ones. However, other families may not be so sure. To help you decide, there are a few things to take into account.
First, consider your loved one and what type of service they might have wanted. If they were more traditional, then a memorial service may be a better fit. If they were open to new things and liked things a little differently and upbeat, a celebration of life event would be the way to go.
Also, it’s important to note that even though both of these services have a typical flow of order and overall tone, each of these services can be customized to fit your needs. If you would like to have a celebration of life event but add elements of a memorial service, then go ahead. These services are for you and your family so do what feels right for you.
To help you plan the service for your loved one after their cremation services Tigard, OR., call or come by today and talk one-on-one with one of our cremation directors. Together we can arrange a perfect and fitting service for your loved one.