Burial Services

The earliest human burial dates back 100,000 years making it one of the oldest and most widespread of traditions in human history. 

We have the deepest respect for this traditional practice. However, there are several important aspects to consider when deciding whether to bury a recently-deceased loved one, or when selecting burial during funeral pre-planning. 

We pride ourselves in offering a number of affordable burial service options. They range from simple burials where only a member of our staff oversees the interment; to simple graveside services led by a minister or celebrant; to a traditional funeral service followed by burial. Each can be tailored to meet the needs and expectations of your family.

When it comes time for you to make final care arrangements on behalf of a loved one you may be surprised to learn of the benefits of well-crafted burial services. During the arrangement conference with a funeral director you'll have the opportunity to discuss the features and benefits of graveside services and look at several reasons why families choose a graveside service:

Simplicity: Many people today want more simplicity in their lives — a natural, uncluttered, uncomplicated life. This desire is nothing new to the human heart. Consider the Roman Catholic, Anglican and Quaker religious orders who continue to strive for a simple, sincere approach to life. We've long wanted to focus on what is most important, and the simplicity of graveside services does just that.

The Natural Setting: What better place to celebrate the life of a loved one than under the open sky, beneath trees, in the bounty of nature? No matter the type of cemetery that your loved one's burial services is held at, the emotional and spiritual comforts of the natural surroundings will be keenly felt.

Religious Requirements: There are profound religious reasons families choose burial services over other final care options. For example, the Christian concept of resurrection of the body is an important belief and it makes burial an act of religious ceremony. Jewish families and those practicing Islamic traditions also have strong religious and social commitments to burial.

The Importance of Witnessing: As mentioned earlier, societies of all times and in all places have incorporated burial into their cultural or religious practices. The historic social relationship with burial has resulted in a core belief shared among peoples around the globe: burial is an act of respect, made most meaningful when witnessed.

All reasons aside, let's look at what's involved in planning a burial service. We've broken down the discussion into three areas-of-concern: the selection of cemetery and burial property, choosing a casket and burial vault; and planning the details of the service.

And while you could think of your loved one's graveside service as a modified version of a traditional funeral, with a member of the clergy leading attendees in standard hymns or prayers, there are some variations you may want to consider. Together we'll determine the best date and time for the burial service, and select the most meaningful readings, songs and activities to be featured in their service.

We'll discuss who you would like to lead the event; it could be your funeral director, a member of the clergy, a celebrant, family member, or close friend. Certainly, the selection of the cemetery and burial plot are practical decisions, but planning the service format is where the heart can take over. 

We're ready to listen and respond. Call us with any questions may have or feel free send them using the form below.