Funerals

“I am Resurrection and I am Life, says the Lord. Whoever has faith in me shall have life,

even though he die.”

The liturgy for the dead is an Easter liturgy. It finds all meaning in the resurrection. Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we too, shall be raised.  The liturgy, therefore, is characterized by joy, in the certainty that “neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”  This joy, however, does not make human grief unchristian. The very love we have for each other in Christ brings deep sorrow when we are parted by death. Jesus himself wept at the grave of his friend. So, while we rejoice that one we love has entered into the nearer presence of our Lord, we sorrow in sympathy with those who mourn.

Book of Common Prayer, p. 507

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Guidelines

Notify the clergy as early as possible. Last rites – prayers and anointing of the dying – are administered by the Rector when possible, and it is desirable that members of the family and those closest to the deceased be present. 

The funeral service is best held in the church building, but may take place in a funeral parlor if the family so desires.

A meeting with the Rector should take place early in the planning process. Music and readings from Scripture are picked by the family and Trinity's Music Director as set out in The Burial of the Dead, p. 491 in The Book of Common Prayer.

Members of the family and friends of the deceased are encouraged to take part in the Service as readers, ushers, etc. 

It is desirable that the Holy Eucharist be part of the Burial Service, and that the coffin (as applicable) be brought into church before the committal.

Committal would normally follow the Service in a nearby cemetery. If cremation is preferred, the remains may be placed in church on a table near the Altar. Alternatively, cremation may take place after the Service.

Those wishing to be interred in Trinity's Resurrection Garden may do so upon discussion with the Rector.

Fees and other details should be discussed with the Rector at the time that arrangements are made.