Quote from a Funeral Director:
'Pete what I like about you, is that none of your services are the same. I have conducted three services today, with you as the minister, and each have truly reflected the deceased life. it shows to me that you do truly listen and adhere to the families wishes.'
After working with the bereaved for 20 years of successful Independent Ministry in the Midlands, specialising primarily in Christian Life Celebration. I have become aware that society has becoming increasingly diverse, with more people considering themselves to be “spiritual” rather than religious. Whilst actual church attendance is at an all time low, many people still quite rightly consider themselves to be “Christian” both in ethics and morality. However they do not always necessarily consider that a church service is completely appropriate to their individual requirements.
There have been several key areas that I have chosen to address in my work, when listening to my clients, most people seem agree that ‘Choice’ is the key word for the twenty-first century. I have generally found that prayer books can be restrictive and sometimes unhelpful, so I chose to abandon a set liturgy, offering instead a rich selection of music, readings, optional prayers, meditations, along with various committals and eulogy styles.
The wishes of the family (and indeed the deceased) are always paramount, for example someone may wish to have a hymn or two include into the service, but omit prayers or bible readings. Others may choose to have a completely humanist service, but include a Christian ending. In the end I seek to respect their wishes, and believe that It’s totally up to the family how they choose to say goodbye to a loved one. I seek to offer a wide choice of styles from a completely non-religious, semi-religious and traditional English Christian, as well as inter-faith services. In fact the family may choose any style from Humanist through to a full Requiem Mass if they wish, and anything in between, and whenever possible, I pride myself that every family gets a personal Pre Funeral Service visit, a copy of The Service Conducted.
At the present time, with COVID 19, a limited few options cannot be offered at the present time, However, Pete is more than happy to discuss the policies with families, and answer any concerns you may be experiencing during The Pandemic.
I am told that my style is open, friendly and that I am very approachable. I have to admit to cherishing literally hundreds of thank-you letters from satisfied families over the years, thanking me for the dedication to my work.
I like to think that nothing has been left to chance, and so in conclusion if you would like the opportunity to discuss my work with you further, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Copyright 2015 Peter White. All Rights Reserved