What Is a Committal?

What Is a Committal? Understanding This Important Part of a Funeral Service

The word committal often comes up during funeral planning, yet many families aren’t entirely sure what it means. The committal is one of the most meaningful moments in any funeral or cremation service.

It marks the point where the coffin is formally entrusted to its final place of rest, and it often provides emotional closure for those attending.

This guide explains what a committal is, how it works in UK crematoria, and why it plays such a significant role.

What Exactly Is a Committal?

A Moment of Formal Farewell

The committal is the final part of the ceremony. It usually takes place near the end of a funeral or cremation service and is led by the minister, celebrant or officiant.

During this moment, a short reading, blessing or farewell message is spoken. It symbolises the act of saying goodbye and committing the person to their final resting place.

A Tradition Across Faiths and Cultures

Although the style of a committal varies, nearly every faith or belief system includes a formal moment of release, blessing or closure.

Even non-religious services include a committal, usually spoken by a celebrant in simple, comforting language.

What Happens During a Committal at a Crematorium?

Crematoria across the UK follow similar practices, although each chapel may have its own equipment and layout.

Here’s what families can expect.

Closing the Curtains

The most common form involves curtains drawing gently around the coffin.

This creates a private, peaceful moment that allows attendees to reflect and acknowledge the finality of the farewell.

Lowering or Sliding Away

Some crematoria use a lowering mechanism where the coffin gently moves down from view.

Others have a system where it slides away discreetly. Both approaches are designed to feel calm, respectful and unobtrusive.

Remaining in Place

In some chapels, the coffin remains visible and does not move at all.

The committal is symbolic rather than physical, with only the spoken words marking the moment. This option can feel more comfortable for families who prefer a softer farewell.

Why the Committal Matters

Emotional Closure

The committal helps families process the reality of the loss.

It creates a clear, gentle transition from the ceremony to the final stage of the funeral. Many people describe it as the turning point where grief becomes a little easier to carry.

Respect and Ceremony

The moment allows relatives and friends to honour the life lived.

Whether the service is religious, spiritual or completely secular, the committal provides dignity and structure.

A Shared Experience

Because everyone present experiences the committal together, it offers a collective moment of support.

Guests often feel united during this part of the service.

Committals at Burial Services

Although this guide focuses on cremation, the committal is also part of a burial service. At a graveside, the officiant usually says a final blessing or reading before the coffin is lowered.

Soil, flowers or petals may be placed on the coffin as a symbolic gesture.

FAQs About Committals