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 the person into God’s keeping. This 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 their local parish priest regardless of whether they attended church or not.

Planning a funeral

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 we can help you choose suitable readings, hymns and prayers. Our Vicar 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. Please talk with the Vicar about what is possible.

Support us, O Lord, all the day long of this troublous life,
until the shadows lengthen and the evening comes,
the busy world is hushed,
the fever of life is over and our work is done.

Then, Lord, in your mercy, grant us a safe lodging,
a holy rest, and peace at the last;
through Christ our Lord. Amen.

For more guidance and helpful suggestions please visit the Church of England website.