Memorials & Funerals
Designed and Officiated by Rev. Shay MacKay
I would be honored accompany you, your family, and your community through times of loss. I can offer guidance, warmth, and personalized ritual as you make difficult decisions, navigate strange and unsettling emotions, and let go of someone you love.
End of life rituals help us transform grief into a sustaining affirmation of love that has been shared. They can also help us let go of more challenging relationships. There are many ways in which to find some closure and comfort after a loss. Any of these can be as religious, multi-religious, or non-religious as desired.
Funerals - the traditional casket or urn, funeral home or church, eulogies and hymns. For some, the structure and traditional familiarity of this ritual offers exactly what is needed to remember and let go.
Memorial Services offer more flexibility in structure and content, as well as location. Is there a favorite grove of trees or beach that hold meaning? Are there traditions, foods or activities that are important?
Celebrations of Life - these can happen both after death or while the loved one is still alive and able to celebrate. While grief will still be present and acknowledged, the focus of these gatherings is joy and delight in a beautiful life lived.
Or we can start from scratch, creating unique and personalized rituals that speak to your specific needs, or do a combination of all of the above.
I am also available to help you plan cremation ceremonies, graveside services/interments, or scattering of ashes.
"Thank you so much for officiating at my brother Tom’s memorial service this past weekend. Your words were very comforting to me personally. Many people told me how your words touched them, as well. The service was beautiful. I value the advice you gave on questions I had regarding the service and the time you spent listening to me talk about my brother."
~ Rita L.
Our lives are a continuing cycle of growth and loss, of joy and sorrow. Are there other losses in your life that you are grieving? The loss of a beloved pet, a divorce, the loss of a job or retirement, having to move out of a home full of memories or make the transition into a care facility, empty-nesting. If you need help marking any of these moments in time please contact me for ideas on how I can help you.