Funeral
The loss of a loved one is something which brings profound and often difficult emotions, and dealing with the practical things, such as organising the funeral, is made harder when we are consumed with grief. Our desire at St Peter’s is to try and make this process straight forward and positive, by walking with you through the days leading up to and following the service.
For some people, they may want a service in Church and St Peter’s is able to offer a service which will be personalised and appropriate, reflecting the life and faith of the person who has died, working (as far as is possible) with the wishes of both the deceased and the family.
We believe that there are three things we are doing at a funeral: firstly, to celebrate a life, by telling the story of the deceased. Secondly, we aim to offer a time when those who attend can say a proper “goodbye” to their loved one, offering space for reflection. And, thirdly, and most importantly, to offer the hope we have in Jesus Christ, and his promise of life beyond this life for those who believe, through Bible readings, an address and prayers for the future path that all of those present will walk.
Whilst St Peter’s is often the venue for the funeral, some people may choose to have the service at a Crematorium, and one of the team involved in funeral ministry at St Peter’s will always be available to officiate wherever the service takes place.
St Peter’s has a closed graveyard which means we are not able to offer the burial of a loved one in the churchyard. The scattering of ashes may be possible, in exceptional circumstances, at the discretion of the Vicar, but a beautiful civic graveyard is available about a mile from the church.
We are always available to talk through what the family and friends would like to include in a service, and discuss the hymns, prayers and readings, but the initial contact to book a service should always be made through a funeral director.
Our care for the bereaved does not end with the funeral. We offer a regular Bereavement Journey course of sessions which seeks to aid the progress of grief and walk the journey with those mourning a loved one. Details of this can be found here.
If you would like to know more or discuss the needs you have for such a service, please contact us.
