A NEW Format for Open Mic Sessions at Funerals & Memorials Many of us, who have had the honor to conduct funerals and memorials, can all tell a few frightening stories of those who have stood up to say a few words (something we call "open mic" time). Many things can go wrong. Here are the … Continue reading Open Mic @ Memorials
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Ten tips on how to move through personal grief
Ten tips to move through personal grief Give yourself time Go easy on yourself Take time to reflect and think (and pray) Accept help from others Seek help Be thankful for the things in your life that are positive Journal your thoughts and feeling Attend a support group Go through photo albums / watch old … Continue reading Ten tips on how to move through personal grief
Why have a funeral / memorial
So many families these days are taking the time and spending the money for Celebration of Life services. So this begs the question, "why have a service?" Here are a few reasons from a minister's stand point. Chance to mourn (which is necessary for emotional health) Honor the good this person has done Places a … Continue reading Why have a funeral / memorial
Summary of life example
click this link: sally-summary Above is a link to a well done summary of life for a recent family I served. I post it as a good example to you as you're writing one for your loved one. I hope it helps.
Plan Your Own Funeral
Ten things to decide when planning your own funeral / memorial Location of service Location of cemetery Cremate or burial Minister Eulogies Music Reception to follow (and where) Donate to charity (which one) Pallbearers Poetry (and who will read)
Funeral Slideshow Ideas
Everyone makes video for funerals and memorials. But here are a few ideas for your video that you may not have considered adding. The hand writing of your loved one Old vintage video Someone reading a poem Newspaper clippings or covers of TIME magazine from the day Short interviews of friends and family Old birthday … Continue reading Funeral Slideshow Ideas
Common mistakes in planning a funeral / memorial
Top Five Mistakes Don't include all the family members in the decisions Go with the very first mortuary you meet with Making decisions with only money in mind Telling the minister what to say without his / her input Rush the plans
Cremation Versus Burial
A Christian Perspective With the rising cost of funeral expenses today, many people are choosing cremation instead of burial. However, Christians often have concerns about cremation. They want to be sure the practice of cremation is biblical. This study offers a Christian perspective, presenting the arguments both in favor and against the practice of cremation. … Continue reading Cremation Versus Burial
2016 HANSEN HOLIDAY: “When Your white Christmas Turns Blue”
What do we do when we are hoping for a white Christmas but get a blue one? ONE Talk about your loved one By talking about him/er, you’re letting others know you’re good with talking Giving permission to others is necessary. IF that is what you want. ILLUSTRATION- I always have coffee with my … Continue reading 2016 HANSEN HOLIDAY: “When Your white Christmas Turns Blue”
Top Funeral Songs
Time To Say Goodbye The Prayer I'll Be Missing You Wind Beneath My Wings Because You Loved Me My Heart Will Go On Tears In Heaven Amazing Grace I'll See You Again You've Got A Friend In The Arms of an Angel Only Time Hallelujah Country Road Take Me Home I'm Moving On Love Is … Continue reading Top Funeral Songs
Celebrate & Remember Funeral Pastor 