The Funeral Service
The Funeral Service may occur in church, at someone's home, at the Crematorium, or at the Funeral Home.

Reception of the Body into Church: the priest will lead the coffin into church, often reading out some comforting sentences from the Bible. The coffin may be sprinkled with holy water. On some occasions (especially if the person who has died has been a practicing Christian) the family may want the body to be received into Church the night before. This, too, is possible if it is arranged with the priest and undertaker. It is accompanied with a short service of prayers.

Hymns: the priest can help you choose some suitable hymns for the service.  It is becoming ever popular for people to request CD music to be played at a funeral.  However, it needs to be remembered that this doesn't replace hymns and the selection of music should always be discussed with the priest as should the most appropriate time for it to be played.

Ministry of the Word: some readings from the Bible and a few words from the priest. He will talk about the

Christian meaning of death and eternal life and the message of hope we discover in Jesus.  You may want to discuss with the priest any particular Bible Readings you have in mind.

Prayers: for the person who has died, for the family and friends and all who are bereaved.

Words of Remembrance: Sometimes, a member of the family may wish to speak about their loved one who has died. This happens just before the Commendation.   If this is the case, then it may be helpful to write things down. Even though you may feel confident about speaking, when it comes to the funeral you may discover that all kinds of emotions take over. Give a copy of what you want to say to the priest in case you want him to stand in for you.

Commendation: this is where the priest commends the person who has died to God's safe keeping. It is the most important part of the service. If the service has taken place in church, then the coffin is then carried out of church and we journey to the place of committal, either the cemetery or the crematorium. The ser

vice at the graveside or in the chapel at the crematorium is usually short and simple. You can also choose a hymn to be sung at the crematorium.
Committal The priest commits the person's body either to the ground or for cremation.

Burial of Cremated Remains The priest, too, can assist in the burial of cremated remains. We are unable to assist in the scattering of the ashes. The Burial of Cremated Remains is accompanied by a short time of prayer.

Of course if, at any stage, you would like to talk to the priest either before or any time after the funeral has taken place then please get in touch. We are here to help as much as possible and we understand how difficult things can be.