Celebrant profile:
Lindsay Dewal
Hello, I’m Lindsay de Wal (formerly van Dijk). I conduct humanist and non-religious funeral ceremonies for families who wish to say goodbye in a way that truly reflects the life, personality and values of the person who has died.
Every life is unique, and every farewell should be too. My role is to help create a ceremony that feels genuine, respectful and personal; a space where stories can be shared, memories honoured, and where people can come together to acknowledge both loss and the life that was lived.
Alongside my celebrancy work, I have spent many years working in humanist and existential care at a national and international level. I previously led Spiritual and Pastoral Care services within the NHS, becoming the first humanist to head a hospital chaplaincy department in the UK, and I now work internationally to develop professional standards for humanist and non-religious pastoral care globally.
I am also the author of Humanist Chaplaincy in Practice (Routledge, 2026), the first global textbook dedicated to secular pastoral care. Across all of my work, whether in healthcare, education, or funerals, my focus is always the same: supporting people in meaningful moments of life with care, dignity, and respect.
I am now based in Argyll and Kintyre, Scotland, and I am honoured to support families across the surrounding areas.
Check My Availability
Busy Limited Available
Funeral Ceremonies
What I offer:
-Time to listen: I spend time with family and friends to hear about the person who has died; their character, their life, the things that mattered to them, and the memories people carry.
- A ceremony that reflects the person: Together we shape a ceremony that feels right for them. This might include stories, music, readings, or moments of quiet reflection.
- Gentle guidance: Funeral arrangements can feel overwhelming. I offer calm guidance through the process, helping you think through the structure of the ceremony and any practical elements of the committal.
- A carefully written tribute: Each ceremony is written individually, capturing the person’s life with care and attention. Families receive a copy afterwards as a keepsake.
-A calm and compassionate presence on the day: On the day of the funeral, my aim is simply to hold the space with warmth and dignity, helping everything unfold in a way that feels respectful and supportive for everyone present.
Getting in Touch
If you feel a humanist ceremony may be right for your loved one, you are very welcome to contact me. Once arrangements are agreed, I will liaise directly with the funeral director regarding the practical details.
You can find more information about my celebrancy services and fees on the contact page, or simply get in touch if you would like to talk things through: lindsay.dewal@humanism.scot
Warmly,
Dr Lindsay de Wal
Ceremony fees:
Please note that there may be some additional costs, such as for travel.
| Funerals | £200.00 |
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