Funeral and Memorials

      The death of a loved one can be very difficult for those who loved the deceased. Whether the deceased is old or young, or whether the death was sudden or expected, the loss is personal and real.

      We at St Andrew's are privileged to offer you and your family pastoral care at the time of a death. Our ministers and Parish Nurse are trained in offering support and care to the bereaved.

      Our Ministers can perform Christian funerals or memorial services that are meaningful and personal. The purpose is to give thanks to God for the life that has been lived, while creating space for those present to express feelings and begin to grieve the loss.  

      Both the church sanctuary (capacity 400) and the chapel (capacity 60) are available for funeral and memorial services. In addition, our ministers regularly perform services in local funeral homes or at graveside.

AN ORDER FOR A FUNERAL/MEMORIAL SERVICE AT ST. ANDREW'S UNITED CHURCH

Gathering

Lighting of the Christ Candle 
To remind us that Jesus Christ, the light of the world, is with us even in our darkness and grief; family may participate in this act

Scripture Sentences

Welcome and Greeting

[Music (Hymn, song, CD track)]

Prayer (shared in unison)
To gather us and ask for God’s presence as we mourn and remember

[Prayer of Confession]
To bring to God anything that is weighing us down or feels heavy

A Time of Remembering
Family and/or friends may offer memories, stories, poems, etc.

Scripture
One or more readings from the Bible are read; family/friends may wish to read

Reflection/Sermon
The minister offers a reflection on the Bible readings and life lived

Prayers and The Lord’s Prayer
The minister offers prayers for the family and friends. Everyone shares The Lord’s Prayer together

[Music (Hymn, song, CD track)]

Commendation and Blessing
Prayers are offered near the casket/urn for the deceased, commending her/his care to God 
Everyone shares a printed blessing together 

Funeral Receptions and Lunches
       The United Church Women frequently host receptions following funerals and memorial services. This gives family and friends an opportunity to gather following the service itself. The cost for receptions is $5/person, which 
includes use of the Fellowship Hall (capacity 200) or Parlour (capacity 40), and an assortment of tastefully arranged sandwiches, vegetables, sweets, coffee, tea and juice. To book a reception, please contact the church office  and ask for the Funeral Reception Coordinator.

Memorial Garden
      We also have a Memorial Garden on the grounds of the church that is open to all individuals, regardless of religious affiliation. If you wish to purchase a name tablet for yourself or for a relative or friend, a service of dedication for the name tablet can be arranged. Speak to a minister or fell free to view the memorial garden page for more information 

      We as a Christian community will continue to hold you and your family in our prayers following the funeral or memorial service. In addition, you will be invited to attend our Annual Memorial Service held the first Sunday in November to place a flower in memory of your loved one.