service details
What happens during the service is something that is usually worked out between the family and the celebrant or minister. To help things run smoothly it’s important that there is an agreed programme and everyone knows when it’s their turn to speak or perform. On the day our role is usually to coordinate various elements that need to come together to make the funeral happen.
Speakers
When inviting people to speak at the funeral the invitation is best made by the family. We recommend when selecting speakers you try to find people that can cover different aspects of the deceased’s life and experiences. You should also think about the number of speakers you have and whether to open the floor on the day for others that might like to share.
Music
Music has a very powerful effect on a funeral service. It doesn’t matter what style of music it is as long as it in some way reflects the character of the person who has died, or expresses your feelings or emotions for them.
During the service you might choose to play a recording of a favourite song, or have live musicians perform; perhaps an organist or pianist, a singer or choir, or, if appropriate, a piper, bugler, string quartet, or small band.
Example of songs you could choose:
- Sailing – Rod Stewart
- Time To Say Goodbye – Andrea Bocelli & Sarah Brightman
- How Great Thou Art – Howard Morrison
- I Did It My Way – Frank Sinatra
- You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban
- The Last Farewell – Roger Whitaker
- Stranger On The Shore – Acker Bilk
- We’ll Meet Again – Vera Lynn
- Memoires – Barbara Streisand
- Morning Has Broken – Cat Stevens
- Amazing Grace – A lot of different artists
- Song Bird – Eva Cassidy
- Over The Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
- Wish You Were Here – Pink Floyd
- Always Look On The Bright Side Of Life – Monty Python
Readings
Often the officiant will share a reading or special verse at the funeral. If there is a verse or poem you which to use at the service we can print it in the Order of Service. Likewise we will print the words for any hymn you plan to sing. Check out our funeral resources page if you need help to find something appropriate.
Newspaper Notices and Online Tributes
It can be tricky trying to let everyone know when a death has occured and what you have planned for the service. We can assist you in placing notices in the NZ Herald or any other paper you may require. We can also prepare an online tribute which will go on our website and you are able to share with family and friends via social media.
Pall Bearers
If you choose to use pall bearers you’ll need to invite four or six people for this role. On the day we’ll guide them in their duties.
Looking for more information?
Check out our funeral resources page for more information.