A worship service, Come and Find a Quiet Center, returns on Sept. 9 and will continue on Thursdays in Memorial Chapel from 11:30 a.m. to noon. Learn more.
photo by Susan Quirk
It's hard to talk about death, especially our own or someone we love. When death occurs not having had some discussion, thinking, or planning can and does place families in a crisis mode. The reason: no one knows what to do, who to turn to, or how anything is done. Our pastors have met with families who wished they had had some idea of the wishes of their loved one.
Pastoral Care has a booklet titled “When Death Occurs.” In it we offer direction for the use of our church building and its facilities. There are some recommendations for appropriate funeral and memorial services – i.e. A Service of Witness to the Resurrection. Additionally, there is information about the memorial garden/columbarium which is located on the church grounds.
Several church members have met with the pastors to go over their service and to talk about things that are meaningful to them. The pastors keep this work on file to use with the families to help plan the service. It is humbling to talk with members who have gotten to the point where they are ready to do this spiritual work. The outcome is a real gift to the family.. Our Presbyterian Book of Order says, “Remember that Christians do not bear bereavement in isolation but are sustained by the power of the Spirit and the community of faith. The church offers a ministry of love and hope to all who grieve.”
Upon request we will send you a copy of the booklet “When Death Occurs” for your personal planning. Email any of the pastors, or call the main number of pastoral care, (336)-478-4709.
