Funerals
Funeral Planning at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church
At St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, we approach funerals with the hope and assurance of resurrection, celebrating the life of your loved one while offering comfort and support to those who mourn. Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, but our clergy and staff are here to guide you through this sacred process with compassion and care.
At St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, we approach funerals with the hope and assurance of resurrection, celebrating the life of your loved one while offering comfort and support to those who mourn. Planning a funeral can feel overwhelming, but our clergy and staff are here to guide you through this sacred process with compassion and care.
A Pastoral Approach to Funerals
As Christians, we believe that in death, life is changed, not ended. The funeral liturgy is an Easter liturgy, marked by joy and hope in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It also honors the natural grief we feel when separated from those we love. Our services are designed to celebrate the life of the departed, proclaim faith in the resurrection, and provide comfort to all who gather.
As Christians, we believe that in death, life is changed, not ended. The funeral liturgy is an Easter liturgy, marked by joy and hope in the resurrection of Jesus Christ. It also honors the natural grief we feel when separated from those we love. Our services are designed to celebrate the life of the departed, proclaim faith in the resurrection, and provide comfort to all who gather.
What to Expect
Our funeral services follow the order provided in the Book of Common Prayer, which includes scripture readings, hymns, prayers, and the option for Holy Eucharist. Below is a sample outline of a typical funeral service:
Our funeral services follow the order provided in the Book of Common Prayer, which includes scripture readings, hymns, prayers, and the option for Holy Eucharist. Below is a sample outline of a typical funeral service:
- Prelude: Instrumental music to set a reflective tone.
- The Burial of the Dead: Rite Two: Opening prayers and scripture.
- Readings: Selected passages from the Old Testament, Psalms, New Testament, and Gospel.
- Homily: A message of hope and reflection.
- Prayers: Intercessions for the departed and those who mourn.
- Holy Eucharist (optional): A celebration of Christ’s presence.
- Commendation: Entrusting the departed to God’s care.
- Closing Hymn: A final song of faith and hope.
Steps to Begin Planning
- Download the Funeral Planning Packet Our Funeral Planning Packet provides detailed guidance to help you consider the various elements of the service. You can download it here: Funeral Planning Packet.
- Fill Out the Packet Take time to reflect on your preferences for scripture readings, hymns, and other service details. You’re welcome to involve family members in this process.
- Contact the Clergy Once you’ve completed the packet, or if you have questions along the way, please reach out to our clergy. They will work closely with you to ensure that the service reflects your loved one’s life and faith.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can non-members have a funeral at St. Michael’s? At this time, our services are offered for members of the congregation.
- Can I include personal music selections? While we encourage the use of sacred music, our clergy and music director can discuss your preferences to ensure they align with the service's liturgical tone.
- Is a Eucharist required? No, the Eucharist is optional. We encourage families to consider it, as it reflects our shared faith and hope in the resurrection.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or would like to begin planning, please contact our clergy at [email protected] or 985/626-5781. We are here to support you in this sacred work.
If you have any questions or would like to begin planning, please contact our clergy at [email protected] or 985/626-5781. We are here to support you in this sacred work.
Through this journey, know that you are not alone. St. Michael’s Episcopal Church is honored to walk with you, offering comfort and hope as we commend your loved one into God’s eternal care.