Funerals

“The liturgy for the dead is an Easter liturgy. It finds all its 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.”

                                                                        The Book of Common Prayer, p. 507

Funerals are provided for anyone wishing to be buried from St. Luke’s Episcopal Church.  Funerals are ordinarily scheduled within two or three days after the death, or Memorial Services may be scheduled at any time after the death.

If desired, the Priest will accompany the family to the Funeral Home for planning there (they ordinarily handle Funeral Announcements, write or assist with the Obituary, and perhaps advise regarding decisions such as whether the deceased is to be buried or cremated.)

The Priest will discuss the service with the family and help select music, readings, ushers, lay readers and other participants.  The family may request that other clergy be asked to participate in the service.  A stipend for musicians is expected.  A donation to participating clergy is appropriate.

The Episcopal Church encourages the celebration of Holy Communion at a funeral or memorial service, especially when attendance at regular Sunday Communion has been a part of the family custom.