Funerals: A Service in Witness to the Resurrection of Jesus Christ

Special services of Christian worship following a death are a vital part of the life of our congregation and are available to members and the children of members of the congregation.

At the time of death, members are asked to contact the pastor so that the care of the church may be extended to the family and plans for services may be made. Members are encouraged to hold a funeral or memorial service in the sanctuary, using the prayers and hymns of the church. The Deacons of the Church, a service and caregiving group of the congregation, is available to present a reception following the memorial or funeral service, upon request. The church will also provide an organist for the service.

Fees: there are no fees for the use of the church for members. A fee is charged for the organist and it is appropriate to provide a gift to the Deacon Fund if a reception is included with the service of worship.

Members are encouraged to plan for a memorial service by selecting hymns, scripture and other elements of the worship. Also, it is important to have a will. Members are invited to name the church in their wills and to designate Memorial Gifts to the ministry of the church. The pastor is available to meet with members to discuss plans for a funeral or memorial service.

Presbyterians believe that an earthen burial, cremation or the donation of the body for medical purposes are all appropriate ways to handle the physical remains of loved ones. It is possible to hold the service or worship either before or after the committal of the body. In all cases, members are encouraged to make plans “which are simple, which bear witness to resurrection hope, and in which the Christian community is central.”