By Yvonne Richmond Tulloch2023-07-14T13:00:00
What does it means to commemorate a life of someone who is still alive – and is it healthy for those who are dying, or those left behind? As Dawn French reprises her Vicar of Dibley character as part of a 'living funeral' at Truro Cathedral, and some speak of putting the “fun” back in “funerals”, Yvonne Tulloch explores the ethical questions
A living funeral (or pre-funeral as they are sometimes called) is a religious or non-religious celebration focussed on someone who is still alive. Particularly in the case of someone facing a terminal illness, the event can give the individual and their loved ones a chance to say goodbye. They have been popular in other parts of the world for some time, especially South Korea and Japan, but are now becoming increasingly popular in the UK, too.
Their increasing popularity marks a continuing shift away from Victorian-era customs and the ‘traditional funerals’ that many of us will be familiar with, and adds to the range of choices now available to people in marking the end of their life. In countries where assisted dying has been legalised, they are also fuelling conversations about making plans for end of life.
2023-11-30T17:17:00Z By Yvonne Richmond Tulloch
Less than half of people want a funeral when they die according to the latest research. But in moving away from looking death in the face, we may be hindering our long-term healing, says Yvonne Tulloch
2023-11-02T17:15:00Z By Andrea Williams
A culture of death has taken over our judicial system and NHS, says Andrea Williams. Parents must be free to get their children the medical help they need
2023-06-30T15:22:00Z By Cassius Francis
Two hymns made it into this year’s top ten list of songs played at funerals – for the first time in seven years. Rev Cassius Francis reflects on the resurgence of religious songs, and what our music choices can mean at such a difficult time
2025-07-15T14:37:00Z By Natalie Williams
Some young people in England are living in an “almost-Dickensian level of poverty” according to the latest report from the children’s commissioner. It should break our hearts, just as it breaks God’s, says Natalie Williams
2025-07-15T08:42:00Z By Bashar Fawadleh
Last week, Jewish settlers set fire to an ancient church in Taybeh, the last remaining Christian-majority town in the West Bank. Father Bashar Fawadleh explains what it is like to live under the shadow of constant attacks and restrictions, and asks the Church to pray for peace and justice
2025-07-11T14:46:00Z By Neil O'Boyle
New research shows more young people are praying, attending church and open to faith. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, says Youth for Christ’s Neil O’Boyle. But the Church must engage with Gen Z and Gen Alpha on their terms
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