Edward Searl


In Memoriam



IN MEMORIAM features a variety of unique and complete ceremonies with innovations such as the lighting of candles, gathering a bouquet of flowers, piecing squares of a quilt, and sitting in silence in the Quaker tradition. There is a ceremony using the imagery and inspiration of Nature and a ceremony drawing from Native American practices.

"Drawing on years of pastoral experience within the Unitarian/Universalist journey, Searl offers a wide range of modern resources for funeral/memorial situations. The Unitarian custom of engaging in inclusive, non-theistic language provides a wealth of resources for pursuing that approach within the context of grief, loss, death, and the celebration of life."

St. Stephen's College (Edmonton, Alberta): Non-Theistic Liturgy Resources Working Group



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In Memoriam

A Guide to Modern Funeral and Memorial Services


IN MEMORIAM is one of the most valuable resources available for fashioning a contemporary funeral or memorial service. This book reflects the seasoned insights of the author, who has been a Unitarian parish minister for more than a quarter of a century.

Fifteen diverse services address the many and sometimes conflicted emotions that death brings. They are complete and ready to use as is or as a guide to which other elements may be added. The services are beautifully designed and meaningful. Well-chosen, memorable words make the text accessible and inspirational.

In addition to the services, there is much handy information about the practical aspects of funeral or memorial services: how Jewish, Catholic, and Protestant customs differ; what needs to be done immediately when a death occurs; how to fashion a eulogy; the significance of an after-service reception with food; and ways to memorialize one who has died. It includes a cogent form for recording your memorialization wishes along with other important information for your survivors.

This second edition 2000 (replacing the original 1992 edition) adds a sensitive service for the loss of a fetus or death of an infant. The new edition also has service supplements for the circumstances of suicide and cremation.


• paperback
• 144 pp
• Dimensions: 8½ x 9
• Published: 2000
• ISBN 1-55896-407-X
• Price: $18.00


Publications by
Ed Searl

Anthologies: Rites of Passage
Bless This Child
A Treasury of Poems, Quotations, and Readings to Celebrate Birth
Coming of Age
A Treasury of Poems, Quotations, and Readings on Growing Up
We Pledge Our Hearts
A Treasury of Poems, Quotations, and Readings to Celebrate Love and Marriage
Beyond Absence
A Treasury of Poems, Quotations, and Readings on Death and Remembrance
Anthology: The Animal Kingdom
In Praise of Animals
A Treasury of Poems, Quotations, and Readings to Celebrate the Animal Kingdom
Funerals and Memorial Services
In Memoriam
A Guide to Modern Funeral and Memorial Services
Home Altars
A Place of Your Own
A Guide to Creating Sacred Spaces in Your Home
Poetic Reflections
Beggar's Bouquet: A Circle of the Seasons
52 Meditations Follow Nature and Self Through the Satisfying Cycle of Four Seasons.

Created by The Authors Guild

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