The Importance of an Ash Scattering Ceremony

If you are considering training as a Celebrant, you might be curious about the types of ceremonies Celebrants are asked to perform. While funerals and weddings are the two main ceremonies you will write and deliver, there are others too - including ash scattering ceremonies. 

We want to tell you more about this type of ceremony, and how you might form an integral part of this special ritual. 

What is an ash scattering ceremony?

The majority of the UK public choose to be cremated. Of these, 80% have said they’d like to have their ashes scattered. This means, once the cremation is completed, the remains can be taken to a special location - such as a garden, the sea, or a place of sentimental value, and the ashes can be removed from the urn and scattered at that location. 

This is an alternative to the traditional ritual of keeping ashes in an urn or similar container indefinitely. While ash scattering is thought to be quite a modern ritual, it is rooted in ancient practices across the world. 

An ash scattering ceremony could take place shortly after the funeral. Or, it could be months or even years after the death that a person chooses to have this type of ceremony. It is entirely up to the next of kin where and when they have this ceremony - or if they want it at all. 

Why have an ash scattering ceremony?

It’s personal and meaningful

An ash scattering ceremony can be a deeply personal and customised experience. The customer (the bereaved family) can choose a location that is meaningful to them - for example, a place they used to go for their family holidays, or a family grave. The ceremony itself can be flexible too, with poems / readings, music and similar rituals that suit the bereaved, their life and the family left behind. 

It’s conclusive 

Ash scattering ceremonies can play an important role in the grief process, bringing full circle to the bereavement. It’s a way of giving the person back to nature, and releasing them from the urn as a way of ‘letting go’. It’s a lovely way for the family to say a final goodbye. 

There’s No Time Limit

Sometimes, a sudden death can take time to process and accept. While a funeral is normally conducted shortly after the death has occurred, it can sometimes feel too quick for the family left behind. An ash scattering ceremony can be conducted at any point after death, and gives people time to accept what has happened and allow themselves to connect properly when saying goodbye. 

It’s Easy To Organise

Ash scatterings almost always take place outdoors, either on private land or in a public place like a park. There’s no building, catering or other suppliers for the family to organise. It also doesn’t cost the family anything. The main consideration is the legalities. Most public spaces allow ash scatterings, but it is a good idea to check with the land owners in advance. Another consideration is the weather, as very windy or rainy days may not be that suitable for this type of ceremony. 

Why Are Celebrants Needed At Ash Scatterings?

It is not always the case that a Celebrant will be asked to write and deliver an ash scattering. But, often, families will hire a Celebrant to lead the ceremony, read poems or speeches, talk about the deceased, and generally facilitate the ceremony so that it runs smoothly. This unburdens the family and allows them to concentrate on the ceremony itself. 

Having the skills and experience to conduct an ash scattering ceremony is important. When you train as a Celebrant, you should feel equipped to deliver all sorts of ceremonies with confidence. 

This is where we come in. 

When you train with ICPC, you can learn a wide range of ceremonies over a 5 day intensive residential course. This gives you the very best start to your career as a Celebrant, and allows you to take on a variety of business from the outset. 

Click here to learn more about our training and what to expect. You can also download our brochure for more information. Or, if you prefer to speak to someone, you can book a video call here.