Part
01
of one
Part
01
I am looking for several examples of outdoor, non-denominational memorial services - agendas/flow, popular readings, and creative tribute ideas.
Hello, and thank you for asking Wonder to find examples of outdoor, non-denominational memorial services - agendas/flow, popular readings, and creative tribute ideas. I am so sorry for your loss and hope that some of these ideas will bring you comfort as you say goodbye.
The short answer is I have found several examples which I believe will be of some use in planning your grandmother's memorial. The most useful sources I found in my research were from Caring.com and Planningafuneral.com. Below you will find a deep dive of my findings.
AGENDA SAMPLES
The service is your chance to tell the story of your grandmother's life with all her uniqueness, and also allow each other to grieve together.
Here is a sample order of service. It's pretty long with all the included notes, so I've made it brief.
Opening Music
Welcoming Remarks
Candle-lighting Ceremony
Dance or Reading or Music Performance
Meditation or Moments of Silence
Final Thoughts
Closing Music
Most agendas are very similar, so I will list other variances that you could work into your agenda if you'd like:
-Allow others to share stories about your grandmother's life so that you can all enjoy these memories together.
An additional help for eulogy-writing: Consider calling a family member to discuss these things if you aren't sure where to start. Here is a list to consider: "where and when they were born; education; marriage and children; career; special accomplishments and achievements; significant life events; special beliefs; legacy; memories."
MUSIC IDEAS
-Play music that was special to her: a favorite song, music that makes you think of her, etc.
-Non-denominational music suggestions (I'm thinking of music that will blend pleasantly with your outdoor setting):
Eva Cassidy – “Field of Gold”
Amy Grant – “I Will Remember You”
Kenny Loggins – “Celebrate Me Home”
Barbra Streisand – “Somewhere”
Bette Midler - "The Rose"
READING OPTIONS
One beautiful poem you could read is "Miss Me but Let Me Go." It has a subtle Christian reference, but is broadly non-denominational. Another poem suggestion is "How do we let a mother go?" It is hopeful and celebrates the life lived. A further popular choice is Eternal Springs by Victor Hugo, which is short yet beautiful. "The Glory of Life is Love" is a poem which could help celebrate the love your grandmother spread around.
ADDITIONAL IDEAS
-Display meaningful items such as something handmade, photos, or something that was special to her to reflect her personality, passions and beliefs.
-Use a digital photo frame to display photos from the course of your grandmother's life. A digital frame can show many more photos than you would be able to display otherwise.
-Create a celebration of life website. Loved ones can write their memories there, which may be easier than trying to think of something to say on-the-spot at the service. But you will have their memories to look over long after the service is over.
-Live-streaming the service may allow more people to participate in the service if they are unable to travel to join you.
SUMMARY
Planning a service for your grandmother can be full of memories and celebrations of love. I hope that these suggestions will be helpful to you.
Thank you for asking Wonder. If we can be of further assistance please ask again.