Funerals & End of Life Ministries

“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)

When a person is near death, the Minister of the Congregation should be notified, in order that the ministrations of the Church may be provided. (BCP 462). Rev. Kelly and Deacon Maryan deem being invited to walk alongside individuals and their families as death approaches as one of the true blessings of ministry.

The Episcopal funeral service is a comforting, gracious liturgy. Please contact the clergy as you begin to prepare for a funeral, memorial service, and/or graveside service. Local funeral homes are familiar with the patterns and expectations of Episcopal services.