Why I chose to become a celebrant

Many times over the years I have been asked what made me choose to become a celebrant - a funeral celebrant in particular. People often comment that it must be a very sad job and how do I stop myself from crying. These are all very valid points and I will answer them in this blog.

In 2006 I completed my training to become a marriage celebrant. I officiated at quite a few naming ceremonies as well as other life's celebrations and then felt it a natural progression to train in funeral celebrancy. During this time my mother Jean was diagnosed with cancer. Sadly she succumbed to this insidious disease in January of 2008. In the last week of my mother's life I was by her side and we had many conversations. In one of those chats she began to speak of her funeral service and asked me if I would deliver the eulogy. I wasn't quite sure I could as I had never actually spoken at a funeral before, least of all my own mother's. But when the time came I managed to do it. I delivered her eulogy and even had people laughing. When I walked out of my mum's service I just knew that if I could do that then I could take on the world.

It wasn't long after that that I left my fulltime employment in an office job and commenced my career in funeral celebrancy. And I have never looked back. Since that time I have had the honour to officiate at many services for people of varying ages, meeting their families who come from all walks of life.

It is a very rewarding career being able to assist in farewelling loved ones with dignity and respect. Funerals are a sad occasion and yes they can be difficult but as the celebrant you learn to keep your emotions in check all the while showing compassion and empathy.

My only regret is that I didn't take this path earlier on in my life.