The phrase "brief ceremony" refers to a short and concise event or ritual. It suggests that the ceremony will not take much time or be lengthy in nature. Full definition
If burying Osama binLaden at sea with a brief ceremony that pays respects to his religion is the most peaceful solution for all of society, than I am all for him being buried at sea. (religion.blogs.cnn.com)
Once complete, Father Davydov blessed and consecrated the fresco in a brief ceremony. (fb101.com)
As soon as the ball was returned to the infield, the umpires called time for a brief ceremony, and Swan, Montanez and Catcher John Stearns obligingly left the field lest they clutter up Rose's moment. (si.com)