Funerals

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An Episcopal funeral—often called the Burial of the Dead—is a sacred gathering to give thanks for the life of a loved one, offer comfort to those who grieve, and celebrate the Christian promise of eternal life. Grounded in the Book of Common Prayer, the service traditionally includes scripture, hymns, a sermon, and prayers of hope.

Key Elements of the Service

• The Gathering: Friends and family assemble, accompanied by sacred music or hymns, to support one another and prepare for worship.
• Scripture Readings: Passages from the Old and New Testaments offer themes of comfort, resurrection, and God’s enduring love.
• The Homily: The officiant shares a reflection that honors the memory of the departed while pointing to the promises of faith.
• Prayers of the People: Intercessions are offered for the deceased, their grieving family, and the wider community.
• The Commendation: The congregation joins together in a final blessing, entrusting the soul of the departed into God’s eternal care.
• The Committal: Held at the graveside, columbarium, or crematorium, this brief concluding ritual commits the earthly body to its final resting place.