But if we have died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. We know that Christ, being raised from the dead, will never die again; death no longer has dominion over him. The death he died, he died to sin, once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. So you must also consider yourselves dead to sin and alive to God in Christ.
Romans 6: 8-11.
Death is inevitable, both for us and for those of our family. As Christians we know that death is not the end, and we rest secure in the knowledge that God is going to continue watching over us forever. It is not something that we avoid discussing or even dread happening. In some ways we even look forward to it and rejoice at the privilege granted those who have gone before us. One day we will share that privilege.
The clergy of Christ Church offers help and services to those requesting them. Please contact one of the clergy if you are in need or have questions. Parish members are encouraged to meet with the clergy to be able to make service and bequest plans ahead of time, and to have them on file in the Church Office so that their wishes are known and honored when the need arises.
The following is intended to be a general guideline for those at Christ Church who are making funeral plans for whatever reason.
At the time of death, we pray that you will call one of the priests. Even when that is not possible, the clergy would like to be a part of the planning as quickly as the funeral home.
We encourage funerals to be held at Christ Church. We are both commending the deceased to God and affirming our own faith. It is appropriate that this be done in God's house, in a place that sacramentally connects our life with God. Death is not something that we wish to relegate to a special place. We also encourage the Eucharist at all funerals. Funerals are an Easter liturgy - forward-looking - and not simply a service honoring the deceased.
Music at funerals is very important and is encouraged at Christ Church. Congregational participation in music is a wonderful way for the community to affirm both its faith and joy in the Resurrection, and that is the purpose of whatever music is chosen. Vocal soloists are often appropriate. The emphasis on joy and Resurrection means that Easter music is always appropriate. Please talk with a priest and the parish musician about this aspect of funeral planning.
Not only does time have a way of invalidating many such plans, but it is often pastorally important that survivors have a part in determining those arrangements.