Funerals

headstone cross

When someone dies, there's so much to think about and so much to organise. We understand how difficult this can be, but we can help you say your final goodbye in a way that really helps.

You do not need to be a member of a church or a regular attender at St Mary's to ask for a funeral led by a member of our ministry team. The services we lead have space in them to adapt and meet your particular needs and to reflect the life and personality of your loved one.

You are welcome to contact us directly to discuss funeral arrangements, or you could ask your funeral director to make contact with us on your behalf.

There are also some resources on the Church of England's website which may be helpful in thinking through arrangements for a funeral.


Memorials

Sometimes memorial services are organised in addition to funerals, for example when it has not been possible for friends and colleagues to travel to a funeral.

Memorial services can capture different elements of a life and relationships and offer an opportunity to celebrate a life a while after the immediate pain for a bereavement. We can assist with the preparations and plans for a memorial service, whether or not we are also hosting the service at St Mary's.


Remembering

tea light memorials

Grief is a long journey and it is our privilege at St Mary's to offer ongoing support following a bereavement.

We have a remembrance book in our church in which we record the names of those members of the local community love but see no longer. During the month of the anniversary of a person's death, the book is turned to the appropriate page. You are welcome to ask for the name of a loved one to be added.

Each year, in early November, we hold a special service of remembrance and thanksgiving where the names of those who have died in recent years are read out and their loved ones invited to light a candle in their memory. If we have led the funeral of a loved one for you in the last two years, you will be directly invited to this service and their name remembered. You are also welcome to get in touch to add a name.