Tag Archives: Memorial services

A Look at Japanese Funeral Practices

Cultural traditions in a country with a cremation rate of almost 100 percent
Posted on February 18, 2016 by Suzette Sherman (Founder, SevenPonds)

Japan has the highest cremation rate in the world at over 99 percent, with some local governments even banning burials. Cremation was reserved for the rich until after World War II.  However, once the cleanliness and efficiency of the practice … Continue reading →

Posted in Cultural Perspectives | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

How Can a Celebrant Assist Grieving Loved Ones with Planning Memorial Services? An Interview with Lissin Lev Chaya

Lissin Lev Chaya shares the advantages and challenges of having a celebrant plan memorial services
Posted on July 19, 2014 by Zoë Byrne (Editor in Chief, SevenPonds)

Today SevenPonds speaks with Lissin Lev Chaya, a certified life-cycle celebrant. Currently based in Pacifica, California, she received her training and certification from the Celebrant Foundation and Institute. She has been performing rituals and ceremonies for over 20 years. Today, … Continue reading →

Posted in Professional Advice | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

How Can We Plan A Memorial Service? An Interview with Rabbi Sara Shendelman

Rabbi Sara Shendelman discusses the services she offers for people planning a memorial service for a loved one
Posted on February 15, 2014 by Zoë Byrne (Editor in Chief, SevenPonds)

Today, SevenPonds speaks with Rabbi Sara Shendelman, a rabbi and cantor as well as a former ordained minister. Currently based in Berkeley, California, she officiates all types of weddings and conducts memorial services, both interfaith and Jewish, for individual families. … Continue reading →

Posted in Professional Advice | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Restoring Coral Reefs through Sea Burial

Eternal Reefs rebuild ecosystems with cremated remains
Posted on February 6, 2014 by Christopher Hewitt (Blog Writer, SevenPonds)

From pyramids to space burial, technology informs the rituals by which we memorialize our losses. Now we can do so while simultaneously restoring fragile, diminishing ecosystems. Imagine literally turning death into vibrant, dense sea life with layers of coral and schools … Continue reading →

Posted in Cultural Perspectives | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments