The Burial of the Dead is one of the traditional “acts of mercy” required of Christians, and Holy Cross is glad to help families bid farewell to their loved ones, whether or not they have prior connections to the parish or the Episcopal Church. It is our strong preference to have funeral services at the church, not at a funeral home. The church and Parish Hall are available for visitations prior to the service itself. We are also glad to officiate at graveside committal services.
In planning funeral liturgies, our Vicar meets with family members and friends to construct a service that appropriately honors their wishes, the desires of the decedent, and the theology of the Church. We encourage family and friends to participate in the services, offering their remembrances, reading lessons and otherwise contributing their gifts. We also are pleased to offer our Parish Hall for receptions following the funeral.
We do not charge for funerals, except for the services of an organist, if desired. The appropriate amount of a contribution to the church will depend on the financial circumstances of the family and their budget for other funeral costs. Where the decedent or the family are not members of Holy Cross, it should reflect the value of having a church available to the community at large for this ministry. Please contact the Vicar for futher information.