Our true home is in heaven,
and Jesus Christ whose return we long for
will come from heaven to save us. (Philippians 3:20)
Preparing the funeral service for a loved one is a difficult and challenging time. The clergy at Holy Rood will seek to help and assist you in any way they can.
Below are some guidance, instructions and materials to help you in preparing the funeral. If you have any questions do contact the parish office on 01923 224085. If it is out of office hours do leave a voicemail and someone will be in touch shortly.
1. Let the parish know of the death
2. Contact a funeral director
The funeral directors will coordinate between yourselves, the Church, musicians and cemetery or crematorium to arrange the most fitting date for the funeral. They will inform the parish office directly once the date is agreed
3. Come to Holy Rood to meet with the priest to discuss the funeral service
Arranging a funeral liturgy can be daunting, but please be assured that the clergy of the parish have long experience of different circumstances and requests. You can be as involved in the process as you wish. Two key elements are deciding the kind of service you’d like and the readings at the service. Some guidance is provided by the Diocese of Westminster here.
The parish will assist you in putting together an order of service. In regards to music only sacred Christian music is permitted during the funeral service inside the Church.
4. Keep the deceased in your prayers
Prayer is the most meaningful way we remain contacted with loved ones who have passed, as they journey onwards from this life. As St Paul says “Since we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so, through Jesus, God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep”. Our faith gives us confidence that in spite of the suffering and sorrow associated with death that life is not ended, but rather changed.
If you would like to leave instructions for your own funeral to help your loved ones make the decisions a form has been provided by the Diocese of Westminster which can be accessed here. You are welcome to come and discuss any elements or ideas for the funeral liturgy with the priests of the parish. A copy of the form can also be kept at the parish on request.