We want to be helpful in whatever ways we can when a loved one dies.
The Service of Death and Resurrection expresses gratitude to God for the life of the one who has died and bears witness to our conviction that because Christ has been raised from the dead, we too will be raised to new life. We worship in the assurance that nothing – not even death itself – can separate us from God’s love.
WHEN DEATH OCCURS
Please call the church office. The pastor will provide comfort, prayer, and guidance in making plans for a funeral or memorial service.
SERVICES
Because a funeral or memorial service is an act of Christian worship, many persons find the most appropriate place for people to gather is in the sanctuary of First United Methodist Church.
SERVICES AT OTHER LOCATIONS
If you request that the service be held at another location, the pastor will work with you and the funeral home of your choice. The pastor is accustomed to conducting services at funeral homes.
MUSIC
It is appropriate to sing hymns at a funeral or memorial service. The pastor and the Director of Music can talk with you about hymns and musical selections, prayers, scripture readings, and other details of the service.
WITNESSES TO LIFE
As a way of giving thanks to God for the life of the person who has died, one or more family members or friends are welcome to share their personal words about the one who has died. At the family’s request, the pastor may also open the service for brief words of witness from the congregation. Family members or friends may also participate in the service by reading the scripture lessons.
CREMATION
United Methodists do not insist on burial as the only appropriate means of committing our earthly remains to God. We are open to cremation as a viable alternative. In some cases burial or entombment simply is not an option, either because of the costs involved or a lack of cemetery space. Ultimately, this is a decision which individuals and families make. The pastor is available to talk with you about this.