Blog
To be or not to be embalmed, it’s your choice?
The Egyptians practiced mummification, many centuries ago; which was an early form of embalming. Complex rites and rituals were carried out to ensure the body was properly preserved. The mummification process had enormous spiritual significance. During the American...
Down to Earth
Down to Earth OneSpirit minister Jean Francis takes us on a journey from inception of a funeral through to burial. Birth, life and death are interwoven so we can’t expect one without the other. An entire life could be spent collecting and recycling milk bottle tops....
Coffins designed and decorated
We can illustrate our love in many different ways. It isn’t about spending huge amounts of money. For a family to gather around the bedside of a loved one who is nearing the end of their life can be a beautiful and healing occasion, looking at photographs, sharing...
Giraffe Kissed Keeper
Giraffe says goodbye to dying man, with a kiss Mario says goodbye to his friend at the zoo A dying man who was taken on a final visit to the zoo where he worked for more than 30 years was rewarded with a goodbye kiss — from a giraffe. The 54-year-old, identified only...
Ritual and Ceremony by Jean Francis
What is a ceremony and where can they take place?
Tree Blessings In Dark Times – Part 2
The healing and teachings of trees and the wild in times of grief to aid our mental health and well being.
Tree Blessings At Dark Times
Dealing with Grief – How can trees help us on dark days?
Just as in the deep earth the #trees send their roots into a place without light, so it is that we journey through days of #darkness out in the world and some of us through dark soul times too.
Jean Wins A Major National Award
Jean’s work on pre-need funeral planning has won her the ‘Most Significant Contribution to the Understanding of Death’ award at the 2013 Good Funerals Awards ceremony in Bournemouth and was presented by Pat Butcher of East Enders. The first show of its kind was...
What is a Last Wishes Tea Room?
Adapted from an article first published on 22/03/2013 16:29 – in the West Sussex County Times - By Theo Cronin As a young girl Jean Francis grew up with an all-consuming fear of death. She remembers weeping at the sight of dead flowers, and not keeping a pet for fear...
Day Of The Dead
The Mexican Day of the Dead by Jean Francis As we approach Halloween I am reminded of probably my best holiday ever. The Mexican Day of the Dead is know in Mexico as Dia los Muertos and is recognised as a national holiday. The festival takes place each year over three...