A funeral is a service to mark the end of someone's earthly life and celebrate all they have meant to us. At Victoria we want that service to be as meaningful and dignified as possible so that the memory of the person is respected and those mourning can grieve in a compassionate atmosphere.

Sometimes a funeral is a quiet service with only a few people present while on other occasions it may be a large celebration with a full church and a triumphant atmosphere. When we give thanks for the life of a faithful Christian we often find that great joy and great sadness mingle as we reaffirm that in Christ death is not the end.

Funeral services always provoke questions about the meaning of death and life and we seek to reflect this in the way they are conducted.

I would like to have a funeral through Victoria

If that is the case then please ring one of our ministers at the church office (on 01323 737974) or contact us by clicking here. He will then arrange to meet with you to discuss the arrangements. We will take services at the Crematorium only (i.e. no meeting at the church) if that is your preference.

What happens when the minister calls?

When he calls he will spend some time with you talking about the events surrounding the death of your loved one and listen to you. He will also ask you about the arrangements you would like to put in place for the service, or services. Areas like music, prayers, readings and tributes will all be discussed and he will seek to create an occasion that will do justice to the memory of the person who has died. And if you're completely at sea with arrangements like these he will guide you through and make suggestions that will help you.

Every funeral is different and none is easy. You need to know that you can call the minister at any time during this period whether you want to discuss arrangements or just talk. We are here to help you.

The funeral itself

Normally you would travel to the church or crematorium with the undertaker and the coffin. When you arrive you will be met by the minister and he will be there to help you through the event, conducting the service which you will have agreed beforehand. There may be other family members taking part and the minister will make sure that the service(s) goes to plan.

Every funeral service ends with the Committal - a particularly solemn moment. This is the moment when at the graveside, in the crematorium chapel or in church before the hearse leaves we commit the person into God's keeping for eternity.

Do you conduct funerals only for people who are members of the church?

No, we will conduct funerals for people who have been committed to the church and those who have not.

Is money involved?

Yes, there are usually fees that are charged for the use of the building and for the services of ministers, organist and other technicians. However these fees are normally handled through the undertaker you are working with as you prepare for the funeral or thanksgiving service. They will appear on the invoice he gives you.

In some situations the church can also provide refreshments for relatives and these are charged separately. We will always make sure you know in advance what the costs are.

Afterwards?

When a loved one dies there is always a great deal of busy-ness involved in making arrangements, dealing with family and sometimes the authorities. Many people say that it's only after the funeral has happened that they truly begin to grieve the loss of their loved one. As a church and staff team we are available to you even after the formal part is completed to listen, support and comfort. It is part of our on-going ministry to be available when you feel the need to talk, so please don't hesitate to get in touch.

If there are other questions you may have, please click here.

IW