Scattering of Ashes Ceremony
by Steve Pritchard-Jones
The scattering of the ashes ceremony is a special occasion to commemorate the life of a loved one. The occasion is meaningful, memorable, heartfelt and dignified but the best thing about this ceremony is that that it is entirely up to you how you do it.
It’s a fantastic opportunity to give your loved one the send-off they would have wished for.
Ashes are traditionally scattered in a place of significance, interned in the ground, or taken home in an urn. Although many people still choose to tradition, it’s by no means the only choice available but here are the three options:
Scattering of Ashes
This option is by far the most popular way to say that final goodbye to your loved one. Ashes would be normally scattered at a place that had special meaning for the family or somewhere at the request of a loved one. It’s also possible to scatter ashes in multiple places, if preferred.
Interment
This can be in a woodland setting, garden or in a family plot in a cemetery. I have written a blog about the interment of ashes. To read my blog please visit www.pjtopnote.co.uk
Keep the Ashes
Ashes could be kept in an urn but putting them into jewellery as a way of keeping your loved one close by is becoming more and more popular.
Scattering of ashes – things to consider
Where would be appropriate for the scattering to take place (you may need permission from the landowner)?
Select a date and time; anniversaries are particularly poignant. The time of the ceremony should be considered because if you’ve chosen somewhere that gets busy and you want privacy you should choose a quieter time of day.
In the United Kingdom, it’s not illegal to scatter ashes as long as you get permission from the land owner. You don’t need permission to scatter ashes on your own land or over water.
Some cemeteries and crematoriums allow scattering of ashes in designated areas only.
Here are some Top Note tips on how to scatter ashes
- Scatter in a quiet secluded area
- If possible, use an ashes scattering container called a ‘scatter tube’.
- Be mindful of the environment – try not to disturb the earth and avoid conservation areas.
- Avoid windy days.
- Avoid scattering ashes on land where animals are grazing.
Let me help you create a beautiful and poignant occasion for family and friends and to say some words for your loved one as you scatter the ashes in your chosen location.
It’s up to you what words you’d like to include in the ceremony. Some choose to include a short prayer, a religious reading, a poem, or lyrics from a popular song. Whatever you choose, it’ll be a deeply emotional and a very personal moment between you and your family and friends.
Example Scattering of Ashes Order of Service
- Music
- Welcome
- Poem, story or reading
- Eulogy (their loves, achievements, pleasures etc)
- Scattering of the ashes
- Symbolic ritual – shaking hands, plant a flower or a tree (with permission), light a candle, release balloons, scatter seeds etc)
- Prayer or reflection time
- Final words of goodbye
Please contact me if you would like to book a free consultation or if you have any questions.
‘At your service’
Steve Pritchard-Jones
Top Note Ceremonies ‘at your service’
Tel: 07988 626583
