Funeral services at Holy Trinity
The loss of a loved one is a testing period in all our lives. Our services can be planned to reflect the wishes of the person who has died and can support feelings of grief with those of joy and gratitude for the life of that person.
The aim of a Christian funeral is to:
- commend the spirit of a loved one to God’s care.
- help family and friends come to terms with the death of someone they love.
- allow mourners an opportunity to share their memories and support each other.
What do I need to do to have a funeral at Holy Trinity or All Saints’ church?
Funeral arrangements are usually dealt with by your Funeral Director, however please contact us if you would like to speak with us first.
Here’s a guide to help you through the process:
- Notify family and friends. Make a list of people who need to be informed about the passing, and decide whether you prefer making phone calls, sending messages, or writing emails.
- Choose a funeral home. Contact a few funeral homes to compare services and prices, and decide whether you want a traditional funeral service, a cremation, or another type of service.
- Decide on the type of service. Choose between a religious, or non-religious ceremony, and consider any specific traditions, rituals, or customs you’d like to include. Religious services take place in one of our churches or at a local crematorium, and they can vary from a simple thanksgiving for life, to a full Requiem Mass.
- Arrange for viewing and visitation. Consider if you want to have a viewing or visitation before the service.
- Decide on the time and location. Work with the funeral home to select a suitable date and time for the service.
- Plan the Order of Service. Choose readings, hymns, songs, and eulogies. Decide who will speak or perform at the service.
- Prepare an obituary. Write an obituary to be published in local newspapers or online, including important information about the deceased’s life and achievements.
- Arrange for flowers and memorial Items. Select flower arrangements or other decorations and consider creating a memory table with photos and mementos.
- Transportation and burial arrangements. Arrange for transportation of the deceased to the funeral home and final resting place. Decide on burial or cremation details, such as the type of casket or urn.
- Post-funeral reception. Plan a gathering after the service for family and friends to share memories, choose a venue, and arrange for catering or refreshments.
It’s also helpful to discuss your plans with close family members or friends to ensure everyone’s wishes and needs are respected.