Naturis Sancta Funeral Ceremony: Return to Nature
Setting: The funeral should take place outdoors in a natural environment—a forest, beach, or open field. The location is symbolic of returning the body to the earth and acknowledging the deceased's deep connection with nature.
Participants: Attendees could be invited to wear simple, natural clothing (or nothing at all, depending on their comfort and the setting), as an act of equality in death and in life. The focus is on simplicity, humility, and unity with the natural world.
Opening Meditation: The ceremony could begin with a group meditation, allowing participants to focus on the cycle of life, the elements, and the omnipresent force of nature that surrounds and sustains all living things. A guide or Elder may lead this, encouraging thoughts of peace, unity, and acceptance of the natural order.
Reading of the Life Path: A chosen individual, likely the closest relative or an Elder, would read aloud a passage reflecting on the person’s life, highlighting their connection with nature, their journey through the stages of life, and how they lived by the principles of Naturis Sancta. This reading may also reflect on the deceased’s contribution to the community and their impact on the world.
Elemental Blessings: Following the reading, participants could offer elemental blessings:
Earth: A handful of soil could be sprinkled on the body or burial site, symbolising the return to the earth.
Water: A small amount of water could be poured as a blessing of purification.
Air: A collective breath or blowing of wind could symbolise the passing of the spirit.
Fire: Candles or a small fire could be lit to represent the eternal light and energy within.
Offering of Nature: Friends and family could place flowers, leaves, or natural objects from the environment onto the body or burial site, representing both their personal connection and the deceased’s return to the embrace of nature.
Final Words: An Elder or spiritual leader would conclude with words reflecting on the cycle of nature, that death is not the end but a return to the whole, and that life continues in the interconnectedness of all things.
Silent Reflection and Farewell: The ceremony could end with a moment of silence, allowing each attendee to bid their personal farewell. As they leave, they might walk away barefoot through the earth, feeling a connection to nature and the deceased.
Optional Rituals:
Tree Planting: In some cases, planting a tree over the burial site or in memory of the deceased could symbolize life continuing and regeneration.
Natural Burial: To further align with Naturis Sancta’s values, a biodegradable coffin or a direct burial in the earth could be practiced, allowing the body to naturally decompose and return to the soil.
