13/08/2025
Recently, I led the hundredth funeral ceremony that I've been entrusted with since starting out as a celebrant.
In September 2023, when I was given my first opportunity to create a funeral ceremony, I could scarcely imagine reaching this point. Having done so, I continue to be humbled by my work every single day.
Something that's surprised me on this journey is how deeply I've been influenced by the life stories that I've helped to tell. I've not only gained many new perspectives about life, but also about death.
I'm often asked whether being a funeral celebrant affects my emotional well-being. On reflection, I don't think it would be possible for me to create fitting funeral ceremonies without being moved by the recollections of loved ones that people share with me, or by their expressions of grief.
What actually helps is that I've always experienced strong emotions. This has led me to develop the tools and resilience needed to navigate uncomfortable feelings, so I'm in the best possible position to support each family that I work with.
Reaching 100 ceremonies is so much more than a milestone. It represents 100 people who are sadly no longer in the world; the telling of 100 unique life stories; helping those left behind to say a meaningful goodbye.
I feel privileged each time I'm entrusted with leading a funeral ceremony and I don't think that will ever change. As I continue on this journey I hope to continue learning and developing so I can be a better celebrant tomorrow than I am today.
