|
The Significance of Releasing Funeral
White Doves at Funeral and Memorial Ceremonies
By Martin Heikens
Releasing funeral doves as part of the service or
celebration of the life of a loved one not only pays a
poignant tribute to the person who has died, but can
also prove emotionally uplifting and inspirational for
the mourners attending the funeral. The sense of peace
and closure is almost tangible.
Specialist Funeral Dove Release Service Providers
Dove release service providers will tailor a package
according to your exact wishes and will then liaise with
the funeral director to organise the presentation.
The actual release of the doves usually takes place at
the end of the funeral service, civil ceremony or
memorial service. A poem or piece of prose may be read
or a favourite piece of music played to accompany the
release. Alternatively, you may choose for the doves to
be released in total silence.
The doves are released from a basket decorated in the
style of your choice and the presentation is carried out
by experienced dove handlers who will be appropriately
attired for the occasion. On a practical note, one
should bear in mind that funeral doves can only be
released outdoors and in full daylight. This allows
sufficient time for them to return home before it gets
dark, typically at least two hours before sunset.
Symbolic Meaning & Significance
The dove is the universal symbol of peace, hope and
freedom and, in this context, the release of funeral
doves symbolises the release of the spirit of the
departed who is finally at peace. The actual number of
doves released is also significant and offers nuances of
symbolic meaning and representation. For example:
a single white dove represents the peaceful release and
onward journey of the spirit of the deceased;
a pair of doves symbolises the journey of the spirit of
the person who has died accompanied by their spirit
guide or guardian angel;
the release of three doves followed immediately by the
release of a single dove signifies the Holy Trinity of
Father, Son and Holy Ghost guiding the spirit of the
departed on their journey to heaven;
ten doves released simultaneously offer a symbolic
celebration of the life of a loved one and say a simple,
fond farewell.
Funeral Services Guide is a comprehensive guide which
provides services for in life planning, arranging a
funeral, remembrance and coping with bereavement. For
more information on releasing Funeral Doves at a
funeral, please click on the following link: |
