A funeral is used to mark the end of a person's life here on earth. Family and friends come together to express grief, give thanks for the life lived and commend their soul into God's keeping. These can be a small, quiet ceremony or a large occasion in a packed church.
Everyone is entitled to either a burial service (funeral) or to have their ashes buried in their local parish churchyard by the minister regardless of whether they attended church or not.
This is an especially difficult time for those who are left behind and some may find it difficult to cope with the loss of someone close to them.
Some people find planning the funeral with family and friends helps in their grieving. Perhaps you already know something of what your loved one wanted. You may even have planned the service together some time ago.
If you are uncertain, Matthew or another minister if that is preferable, who will lead the service can help you choose suitable readings, hymns and prayers. If we did not know your loved one well, we will want to talk with you to build up a picture of the person's life, this may take only one meeting but sometimes it can be more.
Some deaths will be especially traumatic, distressing or unexpected. The Church has special funerals for children, or after sudden or violent deaths, including suicide. Talk with Matthew about what is possible.
Whatever the situation you find yourself in, the church will do what it can to help you through this process or will put you in touch with someone you may feel more comfortable with.
Please contact Rev'd Matthew Earwicker
01249 01249 821329