If someone you know and love has died, a funeral led by a Church of England minister can be held in church, in a churchyard, by a graveside, or at a crematorium. You do not have to be a church goer to have a church funeral.
A Church of England funeral service can be made as personal and unique as you wish allowing you to give thanks for the unique person you knew and loved in a way that gives comfort and hope.
We can help you to create a personal, moving and fitting service for your loved one and provide support for you in the days and weeks that follow.
If you have been recently bereaved, and would like a Christian funeral for your loved one at one of our churches, please let your funeral director know or contact us via our Church Office.
The funeral can be taken either in church or in a crematorium or burial site. The member of clergy who is going to conduct the service will be in touch and will come and visit you. We will listen with care to your memories and feelings about the person who has died, and will help to craft a service incorporating your wishes.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Where should a funeral take place? The choice is yours: we can lead a service at one of our churches, a local crematorium or burial site. There are some benefits to having a service in church before proceeding to the place of cremation / burial. Firstly, there are no time constraints; whereas crematorium services are usually limited to 30 minutes, we can offer a fuller and longer service if you desire. Secondly, there can be a greater sense of history and prayerfulness in a church building.
Can I choose the hymns and music? We can arrange an organist to play for the hymns, if you would like to sing, but you don’t have to. You can have whatever music you choose, provided it is not likely to cause offence – the member of clergy will be able to advise. We can usually play music from a CD in each of our churches.
What about readings, poems, prayers and tributes? A Church of England service will contain beautiful and hopeful prayers, as well as at least one Bible reading. You are then free to add your own poems, and readings, but you don’t have to. We can make suggestions if you are unsure. You are welcome to give your own tribute or the member of clergy leading your service can do this for you.
What about after the funeral? We see it as our Christian responsibility to care for you, not simply to provide a ‘service.’ If you wish, we can offer pastoral support as you come to terms with your loss. This can simply be a friendly cup of tea and a chat, and includes an invitation to our Annual All Souls Service of Remembrance and Thanksgiving at the beginning of November. You will be invited to come along to the church and give thanks for the life of those who have died, in the caring company of others.
Please contact us if you have any further questions. There is lots more information on the Church of England’s dedicated website:
https://www.churchofengland.org/life-events/funerals
Need a venue for family and friend to meet after the funeral? Our Church Centre in Woodborough Road, Winscombe, is ideal for up to 100 people. It has a fully equipped kitchen for you to do your own catering or use an outside caterer.