A Funeral - An opportunity for expression?
A funeral marks the close of a human life on earth. It is the opportunity for friends and family to express their grief, to give thanks for the life which has now completed its journey in this world and to commend the person into God's keeping. As far back into history as we can penetrate, human beings seem to have felt the need for a ceremonial leave-taking of those who have died. The funeral service of the Church of England can be very short and quiet with only a few members of the family present or an occasion of great solemnity with music, hymns and a packed church.
What is appropriate?
Whether in a parish church or a crematorium chapel, it can be the plain funeral service from the Prayer Book or 'Common Worship' or with the addition of hymns, favourite prayers and readings, an address. It can very appropriately be set into the context of a Communion Service. Whatever the pattern of service, the words and actions all speak of a loving God and the preciousness to Him of every human being.
After the funeral
People who have lost someone close to them are often so busy with practical details and arrangements between the death and the funeral that they do not experience the full sense of their loss until later.
Grieving is a natural and important part of coming to terms with and healing this loss and it may continue for several months. If the clergy are asked, they will try to help. One often finds it is those who have suffered a close bereavement themselves, clergy or lay people, who can most easily offer comfort and support to those who mourn.
Comfort is also to be found in the promises of Jesus Christ, in the hope of the Resurrection and in the belief that the beloved person is safe in the hands of God.
Bereavement Care
If you have been bereaved, you may wish to contact Cruse Bereavement Care, a national organisation offering support to the bereaved in a variety of ways.
For residents of Leeds postal districts, the Leeds Helpline number is 0113 234 4150 where full details of the local service can be obtained. You may need to use an answer-phone but someone will contact you within 24 hours.
If you wish to speak to our Vicar then please contact -
Rev Richard Walker,
St. John's Vicarage, Barcroft Grove, Yeadon,
West Yorkshire, LS19 7XZ.
Telephone: +44 (0) 113 250 2272
Email:
vicar@stjohnsyeadon.org