Funerals
Why release our white doves?
Meaning
Releasing white doves is a meaningful way to celebrate the life of a loved one.
Healing
The tangible act of releasing a dove helps family and friends to process grief.
Special
Releasing doves is a humane and environmentally friendly alternative to balloons – our doves fly home!
Proven
We work with funeral directors and crematoriums throughout Sussex
Have you lost a loved one? Saying goodbye to a loved one is surely the hardest thing any of us has to do. Grief causes our breathing to shallow, our body language to close down, we look down and our shoulders round naturally to protect our heart, yet even this is changed in a dove release.
In a hand held release, the birds are cradled gently, close to the chest, as if in a final loving, protective act, guarding the Spirit we love. Then as arms are raised and breathing deepens, heads lift and eyes follow the joyous flight of the dove, love flies free. In that moment the gift of freedom is offered and peace is received.
No more restrained, the doves circle high above as they orientate, then together they head off on their journey home, and without a word being said their message rings clear: Life changes shape and form but love lives on.
Whether immediately after the funeral, the internment, a stone setting, memorial service or on a special anniversary, a dove release will help you to process your feelings and joyfully remember a life well lived.
We understand that short notice may be inevitable and work closely with you and your funeral director to ensure the smooth co-ordination of release and the respectful accommodation of your needs.
A dove release can be particularly meaningful for Children:
Children in particular can find it difficult to understand death but they usually find it easy to transfer love to a dove. Since they are fascinated by, and gentle with, the life they are entrusted to set free, releasing a dove at a crematorium, graveside or at a private family celebration, renews their connection with their loved one and leaves them with a warm, re-assuring and lasting final memory.
A dove release is also an opportunity for them to receive gifts they can treasure in the form of white feathers, an inscribed dove shaped plaque, and photographs and/or slow motion video of their farewell to their loved one.
The Symbolism Of Doves
1 Dove
Free Spirit
A single dove symbolises the release of your loved one’s spirit as it rises into the sky on its peaceful flight home.
2 Doves
Free Spirit Reunited
The single spirit dove is released followed by a companion dove, representing two souls reunited in heaven (maybe parents, grandparents or best friends).
4 Doves
Free Spirit and Holy Trinity
The single spirit dove is released followed by three doves representing the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit which will guide the spirit home.
10 Doves
Free Spirit and Flock of Angels
The single spirit dove is released followed by nine doves representing a flock of Angels that will carry the spirit to heaven.
A white dove release is a spectacular display of nature, an organic and environmentally friendly alternative to balloons or cut flowers.
When is a dove release appropriate?
Cremation
After the ceremony
Alternative Funerals
Non-traditional funerals are becoming increasingly popular
Memorials
A dove release in remembrance can be conducted in any outdoor location, perhaps a place of fond memories.
Burial
At the Graveside
Cremation
After the ceremony
Alternative Funerals
Non-traditional funerals are becoming increasingly popular
Memorials
A dove release in remembrance can be conducted in any outdoor location, perhaps a place of fond memories.
Burial
At the Graveside
Anniversary of passing
Anniversary of Birthdays
Scattering of Ashes
Celebration of Life
K.N. Worthing
