Funerals

A funeral gives you the opportunity publicly to recognise the death of someone who is unique and irreplaceable – a person who, like all of us, has been made in the image and likeness of God.

When we lose someone we love the last thing we want to think about is funeral arrangements. We need time to grieve and to remember. At St Mary’s we aim to help you through this difficult time, offering you support and guidance as you try to come to terms with the departure of someone you have loved.

We will also help with the practicalities of a funeral and service and can recommend a number of funeral directors in the area. The funeral director will take control of all the arrangements surrounding the funeral.

The service aims to bring hope and light during this difficult time. Jesus Christ himself is the resurrection and life and, as we embrace him in faith, he becomes our resurrection in life and will unfailingly bear us through our grief.

We will celebrate the life of your loved one and commemorate the departed to God, reminding ourselves that the final significance, purpose, usefulness and blessing of our lives rest with God.

If you would like to discuss funeral service arrangements please contact the Church Office (01923 721002).

Remembering

Each November we hold a service in which those who have died are remembered and at which you can light a candle to remember the person you have loved. Everyone is welcome at this service, whether or not the funeral of their loved one was held at St Mary’s.

There is also a Prayer Board in church on which you can put the name of the person whom you wish to be remembered and held in prayer at St Mary’s.

Year’s Mind

This is when we remember those who have died, usually around the time of the anniversary of their death. It is an opportunity to remember, in love and prayer, those who have died.

If you wish someone to be included in the list for the coming year, please contact the Church Office giving:

• your name
• the name of the person to be remembered
• the date on which you would like them to be remembered

Those who lead our prayers will include the person on the appropriate Sunday closest to the date you have given.

A new list is compiled each year.