Our Services:

Celebrants

Celebrants are individuals specially trained to meet the needs of families seeking to create their own unique service or ceremony at a time of loss. They work closely with the family to develop and conduct a service that is personalized to reflect the life and personality of the deceased. This is an option for those without a relationship to a faith community and can also be held in addition to a more traditional funeral. Services can employ reflections of faith or can be entirely humanistic.

Our Celebrants are members of our funeral service team who have taken special training offered by the In-Sight Institute, a widely-recognized certification program which seeks to provide the most comprehensive and sensitive training available. It is important that you and your family know that you are being served by someone who understands the process and is prepared to offer suitable, professional services.

What do our Celebrants offer families?

  • A Celebrant has been specifically trained to design a service for your loved one that is completely personal, incorporating those unique aspects of their life - stories, music and experiences - that made them who they were and that live on in the memories of family and friends.
  • A Celebrant will schedule a special Family Time to meet with whomever you choose to include, to share memories, anecdotes and special moments in the loved one’s life. The essence of the service will be found here, based upon the remembrances of the group.
  • Working with your memories and your preferences in ritual, the Celebrant will help you design a service that best reflects and memorializes the life of your loved one.
  • The Celebrant can serve at a funeral service, memorial service, graveside service, a life celebration or tribute gathering the evening before a liturgical service, an anniversary tribute, memorial dedication or any other gathering designed to honour the deceased.

Can I have a Celebrant service outside the funeral home?

Certainly. Your Celebrant will be happy to discuss your venue options and do everything they can to accommodate your needs.

What is the cost?

The Celebrant’s services require several hours of preparation in addition to the Family Time and the service itself, so a charge does apply. Please ask your funeral director for more information on the current fee structure.

How do I engage a Celebrant?

As mentioned, we have a number of certified Celebrants among our staff so you only need to ask us. We can arrange an initial meeting at any Brenan’s location for you to learn more about the program.