Ceremonies

A non-religious ceremony focuses on the life of the individual.

For this reason, no two ceremonies are alike.

Whatever the situation

In foreground a brass ship's bell is held upturned in a wooden stand, to the rear black chairs are arranged in a horseshoe against the white background of the building..
2025 Service Naming ceremony at HMS KING ALFRED , Portsmouth. (c) Charlie Jones

Wherever it is needed

Committal of ashes off of Spithead, in the Solent – Photo by Charlie Jones (copyright)

Pricing:

Service funerals: Free; to be booked through the Funeral Officer (RN) or Army / RAF equivalent.

Service weddings: Free. The relevant single Service chaplaincy my be required to authorise duty status through the Officiating Chaplain to the Military mechanism (see below)

Service namings: Free. The relevant single Service chaplaincy my be required to authorise duty status through the Officiating Chaplain to the Military mechanism (see below)

Service events take priority. However, where spare capacity exists, veterans’ needs may also be accommodated.

Veterans funerals, weddings and namings: Subject to availability and location, there may be a charge for travel / subsistence if no service option is available. A voluntary contribution to Defence Humanists is requested, to assist with training bursaries for future celebrants in the military community.

For information on Ministry of Defence sponsored ceremonies, the following DINs contains the latest policy. Defence Gateway access is required.

2022DIN01-128 Non-religious and Humanist Ceremonies

2023DIN01-092 Non-Religious and Other Faith or Belief Provision