Down to Earth – The Changing Funeral Needs of a Changing Society
by Marian BarnesMarian was a long-time campaigner for the right of non-religious people to have secular funerals.
This book was first published in 1991, and demand was so high when it went out-of-print, that she made it available for copying and distribution by The Celebrant School. This extremely thorough resource is a funeral classic, covers everything from the historic antecedents of the contemporary funeral, through funerals vs memorials, lowering vs not lowering the casket, considerations around death notices in newspapers, a sample funeral, readings and much more.
A highly recommended resource, this is copied and spiral bound.
Finding Whakatauki – their Focus and Function in Ceremony
Workshop recordingThis Zui, led by celebrant, Karen Tangaere, was recorded during Te Wiki o te Reo Māori, 2023. It encourages celebrants to explore the focus and function of whakataukī (Māori proverbs), so that they are more knowledgeable and confident to use them in their ceremonies. Before watching the recording, you should first research a whakataukī that speaks to you personally, and have that with you.
Karen Rongokahekeiterangi Tangaere
He uri nō Porourangi e mihi atu ana ki a koutou katoa
I greet you as a descendant of Porourangi.
Ko Hikurangi te maunga
Ko Waiapu te awa
Ko Ngāti Porou te iwi
Tūwhitia te hopo! Feel the fear and do it anyway! We hope you enjoy this ongoing professional development session.
Fresh Perspectives on Funerals in Covid Times
Workshop recordingFunerals have been perhaps the most disrupted ceremony during the Covid pandemic. Celebrants have responded in creative ways to assist families in finding respectful, loving and appropriate ways to mark the passing of a loved one.
This workshop, facilitated by Winnie Duggan, brought celebrants together to share experiences and refresh ideas. For those who missed the session in November 2021, this video records the 3 main presentations by Winnie (Wellington), Sam Bennett (Taranaki), and Laura Manson (Golden Bay). They illustrate how celebrants have needed to find new ways to engage with clients and assist them mark the death of a family member.
NB: The Covid specific information shared back in November 2021 has since been updated, so check the Government website for current guidelines.
Matariki 2024
Workshop recordingThe celebration of Matariki still feels new for many New Zealanders, celebrants included. Darcie Price has been at the forefront of demonstrating the many ways that this uniquely Kiwi seasonal celebration can be integrated into family and communities and thus enrich the society of Aotearoa-New Zealand.
A recording of our 2024 session