Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. John 14:1-3
Christ Church Westshore believes very deeply in the Lord’s promise of eternal life to all who trust in and seek to be obedient to Christ. The services for the burial of the dead follow the format in the Book of Common Prayer. It is a solemn moment in the life of the church, not only as a reminder of physical mortality, but also as a time to give thanks again to God for the gift of eternal life through His Son.
When Death Occurs
Please contact the church office at 440-899=7151 for more information concerning scheduling, clergy availability and costs associated with funerals.
When the death of a member of the church occurs, one of the parish clergy should be called at once and arrangements for the funeral made in consultation with him.
Burial From the Church
Baptized Christians, having been nurtured in the church, are properly buried from the church.
Music and the Service
It is appropriate to sing hymns at the burial of the dead. The selection of hymns, prayers, scripture, and other details of the service is done in consultation with the clergy.
Pall For the Coffin
A pall to cover the coffin during the service in the church is provided by Christ Church. Therefore, flowers are not needed for the coffin. The pall reminds us of the equality of all people before God.
Memorials
Memorial gifts are inscribed in one of the permanent books of the church; the Book of Remembrance, the Book of Memorials in the Narthex . The Book of Remembrance records the names of those in whose memory gifts have been given to the church at the time of their death. From this fund permanent additions are made to the church to enhance its worship and work.
Flowers
Flowers are allowed in front of the Holy Table. If flowers are desired, speak to the office.
Funeral Expenses
While expenses in connection with the funeral are for the family to decide, please remember that it is fitting to keep funeral expenses at a minimum. There is no charge for the use of the church. There is a fee for the organist and an honorarium to the clergy is encouraged. Please call the Church office, 440-899=7151 to speak with one of our administrators about costs associated with funerals.
Cremation
Cremation is in keeping with the church’s teaching about death. The service is held in the church, before or after the burial of the ashes.
Funeral Arrangement Form
We encourage you to complete two copies of this form: one for the church office and one for your own records. Call the Church Office at 440-899-7151.