Here is a reprint of our interview with Jeff Smith that was recently published in our monthly email newsletter for Community Connections. If you would like to receive this email, click here.
Although many families find comfort in traditional funeral 
services, the place and content of a funeral service for a person who was not affiliated with a specific church or religious group can be challenging. That said, we all want to celebrate the life of a loved one with honesty and respect. In response to this, Funeral Celebrants are offering an alternative that just might be the right fit for some families.
Jeff recently earned his Doctorate in Divinity from the International Theological University and is now able to provide a dual service for us as a Funeral Director and Funeral Celebrant. Here he shared with us the what, how and why of his new role.
(M) How did you decide to pursue your Divinity Doctorate and to become a Funeral Celebrant?
(J) I have always been interested in religious studies and although I grew up Catholic, I’ve experienced other religions on my own personal search for answers. Throughout my 21 years as a Funeral Director, I’ve worked with families who have really had a hard time creating a personal funeral service for a loved one who maybe had no specific religious or church affiliation. They wanted to do something but often didn’t know what or how. When I learned about this particular program which combined coursework with life experience I pursued it and started performing civil services soon after.
(M) Does this kind of service work best for non-religious families?
(J) No, it doesn’t have to be a non-religious service at all but the focus is on the life lived more than the religion. We try to celebrate the person – their relationships, their contributions. A lot of people might describe themselves as spiritual more than religious and this kind of service can work really well for them.
(M) Is the personalization of the service what makes it unique?
(J) Yes, especially for those who are not known in a church community. It can be difficult to present a person in a traditional service if you’ve never met them. Funeral Celebrants are able to spend some time getting to know the deceased through the family members and can then speak about them in a more personal way.
(M) Is it expensive?
(J) The costs can vary, but ours are kept similar to the traditional fees of clergy for a funeral service.
(M) How can people learn more about this kind of service or the other civil services you offer?
(J) They can reach me through our web site www.memorialfuneralhome.com
Regardless of your religious affiliation or connections, you can have a funeral that is personal and meaningful. If I can help make that happen by answering questions, offering suggestions, or performing a service, I’m glad to do it.
(M) Thanks Jeff!
