Funerals

Funerals can be a difficult time, when there is a lot to organise in a short space of time, while coping with the grief of loss and bereavement. We can accompany you through the grieving process and help to provide the space that you need to acknowledge the pain of loss as well as celebrate a loved one's life.

We can be flexible and help to arrange a service that is right for you and those you are remembering. A funeral, with the body present, can be arranged in church, or a minister can take a funeral at another chapel, crematorium or burial place. If you are using a funeral director, ask them to be in touch with us. Or you can use the form below or contact us directly if you are organising the ceremony yourself.

We can also offer services if the body is being laid to rest separately, for example if the body is left to medical science or is being sent for direct cremation. And we can help with memorial services, for example where funeral rites were distrupted because of social restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic.

FAQs

Do I have to use a funeral director?
No, you can organise a funeral yourself and we are happy to help if you do. However, a funeral director is there to help with all the practical and legal arrangements that are associated with the proper disposal of a body, and their services are often invaluable even with a simple funeral. We work closely with funeral directors in the local area and they will know how to contact us. If you are using a funeral director who is not local to Haverhill and Withersfield, please pass on our contact details so that they can be in touch.

Can I use non-religious music, readings etc. in a church service?
Yes, you can choose music and readings that are meaningful for you and the person you are remembering, which may include non-religious music, especially at key moments in the service such as the entry and exit. Any choices should be appropriate for use in a religious setting, but speak to us if you are unsure. There are certain elements which are essential to a service conducted by a church minister, including prayers of commendation and committal, and we would usually expect to use a reading from the bible such as Psalm 23 or John 14.1-6.

The deceased was not a regular churchgoer. Can they still have a minister to take the service?
Yes, everyone is entitled to a service taken by a church minister, whether or not they were a regular churchgoer. If the deceased was christened or married in church, that may be a sign that a minister would be an appropriate choice of celebrant.

What additional services can you provide for a funeral in church?
Every funeral in church will include a minister, who will expect to meet or talk with you beforehand, and a verger who will be present on the day to ensure that everything runs smoothly. We can also provide an organist, and may be able to provide a choir and bellringers. At Haverhill, we are also able to display a picture or slideshow of photographs, and can livestream the service.