Church Funeral Service

The death of someone close is a very sad time and there is always such a lot to do when you least feel able to cope. Whatever your needs, we are here to help at this difficult time. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions regarding death or funerals or bereavement.

A funeral service in church is for anyone, whether or not they have been regular churchgoers.  It is best to approach your chosen funeral directors first.  They will liaise with the clergy initially, and one of the clergy team will then contact you to arrange a visit.

Churchyards

Our churchyards provide an environment of Christian peace. They are special places and their ambience comes from the churches themselves, their surroundings and from the memorials which tell the history of the communities that rest there. All our churchyards are open for both burials and interment of cremated remains which can be in existing graves or in areas set aside for interment.

Who can be buried in our churchyards?

There is a legal right for anyone who was a parishioner at the time of death, or who died in the parish to be buried or have his/her cremated remains interred in the churchyard. Some of our churches will also consider burials and interments for those who have a strong connection to the parish, for example lived here for a long period of time. Please get in touch to discuss this further if this scenario applies.

Cremation or Burial?

If you choose a cremation, the funeral service can take place either in the church, followed by a short service of committal in the crematorium; or the whole service can take place at the crematorium. The clergy team are available to lead either type of service, but this does need to be booked through your funeral directors. If you choose a burial, the funeral service will take place in the church followed by a short act of committal at the graveside. After the funeral at least six months must elapse before a memorial stone can be erected. Whether the funeral service is to be held in church, or at a crematorium, the clergy are available to take the service in whichever setting you choose.

The clergy will help you plan the service, which can be very simple, or more elaborate if you
wish. It always includes prayers, a Bible reading and a short address. Hymns, music, other
readings and a tribute to your loved one can also be included.

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Interment of Ashes

We are able to arrange an interment of ashes in the churchyard, either into an existing family grave with the support of the next of kin, or to place ashes in a new plot in an area set aside for interments. Please get in touch to discuss options further.

Remembering

Grieving seldom ends with the funeral. It is natural to feel the emptiness for a considerable time afterwards. Our clergy may be able to offer you some comfort at this time. Please contact us if you would appreciate a call. Every autumn we hold a service of remembrance to give thanks for all those whom we have loved.

What other resources about funerals do you recommend?

More information on weddings can be found on the Church of England's funerals site
www.churchofengland.org/life-events/funerals

Bible Reading

"Jesus said, I am the resurrection, and I am the life;  he who believes in me, though he die, yet shall he live, and whoever lives and believes in me shall never die"; - John 11:25-26

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted"; - Matthew 5:4

Prayers

God of love, surround all those I love, especially those I can no longer meet. Be light in my darkness, be hope in my fear, be love in every moment, and give me grace to face each day ahead. Amen.