In the Anglican tradition, pastoral care at the end of life and the celebration of a funeral are grounded in the Christian hope of the Resurrection. We walk alongside individuals and families through illness, dying, and bereavement, offering comfort, prayer, and the assurance of God's abiding love.
An Anglican funeral is both a grief-filled farewell and an Easter liturgy of thanksgiving for a life lived in Christ.
Pastoral Care of the Sick & Dying: Clergy are available to offer hospital and home visitations, prayers for the dying, holy communion, and the traditional anointing of the sick (unction).
The Burial Office: The funeral liturgy honors the dignity of the deceased, proclaims the promise of resurrection, and provides comfort through Scripture, sacred music, and prayers of commendation.
A Celebration of the Holy Eucharist: Many families choose to celebrate the Funeral Liturgy within the Holy Eucharist, uniting our prayers with Christ's victory over death.
Committal: Following the service, the clergy accompanies the family to the graveside, columbarium, or memorial garden for the final prayers of committal.
Whether you are making plans in advance or responding to an immediate loss, we are here to support you at every stage.
| Stage | Timeline / Moment | Pastoral & Practical Support |
|---|---|---|
| Advance Planning | At any time in life | Consulting with clergy to pre-select readings, hymns, and preferences to ease future burdens on loved ones. |
| End-of-Life Pastoral Care | During serious illness or final days | Home or bedside visits, bedside communion, prayers with family, and the laying on of hands / anointing. |
| At the Time of Death | Immediate notice | Contacting the parish clergy to coordinate with the funeral director and schedule the service. |
| Service Planning & Liturgy | Days following death | Meeting with clergy and music staff to finalize Scripture, hymns, eulogies, and reception details. |
| Ongoing Bereavement Support | Weeks and months following | Continued pastoral visits, annual All Souls' Day remembrance services, and parish grief support. |
Do I or my loved one need to be a church member? No. Our doors and pastoral care are open to anyone seeking Christian prayer, support, or a sacred space for a memorial.
Does the Church allow cremation? Yes. The Anglican Church fully welcomes cremation as well as traditional casket burial. The ashes may be present at the funeral liturgy and subsequently interred or committed.
Can we hold a reception at the church? Yes. Parish hall facilities are available for post-service gatherings and refreshments depending on availability.
If someone is gravely ill, in hospice care, or if a death has occurred, please do not hesitate to contact our clergy.
For advance planning resources or to discuss personal memorial wishes, please reach out to schedule a conversation with our parish priest.