Christian Funerals
A Christian funeral gives thanks for a person’s life, acknowledges the pain of death and expresses hope in God.
You do not need to know all the arrangements before contacting a church. A funeral director and a priest or minister will usually guide you through the process.
What happens at a Christian funeral
A Christian funeral normally includes prayers, readings from the Bible, a tribute or address, music or hymns and words of farewell.
The service may take place in a church, crematorium, cemetery chapel or another suitable place. It may be followed by burial or cremation.
What Christians believe about death
Christians grieve because death is painful and separation is real. They do not believe grief shows a lack of faith.
Christian hope is based on the resurrection of Jesus. Christians believe death is not the end and that those who belong to Christ are held by God and promised eternal life.
Who can have a Christian funeral
A person does not always need to have attended church regularly to have a Christian funeral. The exact position may depend on the church, minister and local circumstances.
It is reasonable to ask a local church even if the person had only a loose or historic connection with Christianity.
How to arrange one
The funeral director will often contact a church or minister on the family’s behalf. You can also contact a local church directly.
The minister will normally meet or speak with the family to learn about the person who died, discuss the service and explain what is possible.
Choosing readings, hymns and music
You may be invited to choose Bible readings, hymns, prayers or other music. The minister can suggest suitable options if you are unsure.
Personal music may sometimes be included, especially at a crematorium, but this depends on the setting and the character of the service.
Tributes and memories
A family member, friend or the minister may speak about the person’s life. This is often called a tribute or eulogy.
It can be warm and honest without pretending the person was perfect. The minister can help shape it if speaking feels difficult.
Children and people unfamiliar with church
Children may attend unless the family decides otherwise. It can help to explain simply what will happen and that people may cry.
Visitors do not need to know the prayers or hymns. They may listen quietly and join in only where comfortable.
After the funeral
Some churches offer continuing support, prayer, bereavement groups or an annual service of remembrance.
You can ask the minister whether someone is available to speak with you afterwards, even if you do not normally attend church.
What to say when making contact
You could write:
“Hello. A member of my family has died, and we are considering a Christian funeral. They were not a regular churchgoer, and we are not sure what is possible. Could someone advise us about the next step?”