CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH
Serving East Hampton, Middle Haddam and surrounding communities.
FUNERALS
FUNERAL PLANNING
“The liturgy for the dead is an Easter liturgy. It finds all meaning in the resurrection. Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we too, shall be raised.
The liturgy, therefore, is characterized by joy, in the certainty that “neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
This joy, however, does not make human grief unchristian. The very love we have for each other in Christ brings deep sorrow when we are parted by death. Jesus himself wept at the grave of his friend. So, while we rejoice that one we love has entered into the nearer presence of our Lord we sorrow in sympathy with those who mourn.”
-Book of Common Prayer, pg. 507
The death of a loved one is a profoundly fragile time in our lives, and planning a funeral is one of the most emotionally difficult tasks that we face during those first few days after a death. Christ Church is here to assist you during this time. You may contact the clergy at any time that you would like to discuss final arrangements.
Funerals and/or Memorial Services can be held in the church, the funeral home, or the graveside, wherever you choose. In The Episcopal Church, we use our Book of Common Prayer as the liturgy for burial, though there is a great deal of latitude for individual decisions that reflect your desires and the desires of your loved one. The clergy will guide you in making these decisions and attending to all the details necessary.
Music for a service in the church is provided by our Organist. If you desire soloists or other instruments, you may discuss that with him and he will assist you.
Christians look upon death not as an end, but as an opening into resurrected life. We will do everything we can to support and guide you in celebrating your loved one’s life on earth and entrance into eternity.
“For to your faithful people, O Lord, life is changed, not ended, and when our mortal body lies in death, there is prepared for us a dwelling place eternal in the heavens.”
-Book of Common Prayer,pg. 382
MEMORIAL GARDEN
Our Memorial Garden is a place of solace and comfort where members and non-members may bury the ashes of their loved ones. Regardless of whether the funeral was held at Christ Church, we would be honored to offer our Memorial Garden as the final resting place for the remains of your friend or family member. The clergy of Christ Church welcome a conversation with you to talk about this. Typically, the clergy conduct a brief service when the ashes are interred, and you are free to do this at a time most comfortable for you.
There is a fee for interment and the purchase of a plaque in the Memorial Garden.
Our Memorial Garden is beautifully maintained and anyone is welcome to visit at any time.