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What Is a Green Burial Service Like?
Typically, a green burial service is far more personal than a conventional burial or graveside service. In most green cemeteries, graves are 3.5 feet deep (versus the traditional 6 feet) […]
Typically, a green burial service is far more personal than a conventional burial or graveside service. In most green cemeteries, graves are 3.5 feet deep (versus the traditional 6 feet) and are dug by hand. Friends and family are encouraged to participate in the process of opening and closing the grave if they wish. Some may actually help lower the casket into the ground, or toss handfuls of soil on the casket before the grave is closed. Mourners may also transport the body to the grave site in a personal vehicle and carry it to the grave on a BIER.For some people, this is one of the most satisfying aspects of a green burial service. It can be a very loving and personal way to say goodbye.
Other aspects of a green burial service are often deeply personal as well. As opposed to a formal graveside ceremony with a celebrant or clergy, family and friends may choose to recite poetry, tell stories about their loved one or sing songs. Mourners typically dress informally in colors of their choice rather than in somber blacks and blues. Many people choose to adorn the casket with personal mementos or items that have meaning to them, such as flowers, photographs, jewelry and the like. They may also toss personal mementos into the grave as a way of symbolically wishing their loved one well. According to Kathy Curry of Fernwood Cemetery in Mill Valley, California, [link to video]the beauty and simplicity of the natural landscape inspires mourners to be more participative, turning what had become a rather detached, impersonal process into a true family affair, much like it was in the days before funeral directors co-opted the process of caring for the dead.
Sources
“On the Way to the Green Burial Cemetery: A Guide for Families”. Green Burial Council. https://www.greenburialcouncil.org/green_burial_guide_for_families.html
“Green Burial Stories.” Green Burial Council. https://www.greenburialcouncil.org/green_burial_stories.html
“A Natural Burial for Gracie”. Green Burial Council. https://www.greenburialcouncil.org/green_burial_council_blog/a-natural-burial-for-gracie
“Gallery”. Green Burial Council. https://www.greenburialcouncil.org/gallery.html
“First Burial at The Forest Conservation Burial Ground, Ashland, Oregon”. Green Burial Council. https://www.greenburialcouncil.org/first_burial_forest_conservation.html
