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"God does not mock his own children with a night that has no end. For every Good Friday there is an Easter Morning."         The Right Reverend James P. Clements

There are three short paragraphs in the Book of Common Prayer that are striking in their clarity about death and burial. They are sacred, human, and humane.

The liturgy for the dead is an Easter liturgy. It finds all its meaning in the resurrection. Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we, too, shall be raised.

The liturgy, therefore, is characterized by joy, in the certainty that "neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, no anything else in all creation will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord."

This joy, however, does not make human grief unchristian. The very love we have for each other in Christ brings deep sorrow when we are parted by death. Jesus himself wept at the grave of his friend. So, while we rejoice that one we love has entered into the nearer presence of our Lord, we sorrow in sympathy with those who mourn.

At the time of death, we pray that you will notify the parish as soon as possible so that we can be of assistance. Arrangements for the funeral can then be made in consultation with our clergy. It is our privilege to help a family through each step they need to take, including accompanying them in meeting with the funeral home. And most especially, at the time of grave illness and dying, the parish of St. James’ hopes to be called upon to offer prayers and comfort. We also have "A Statement for the Guidance of my Parish and family" that you may discuss with our clergy to assist you in making funeral arrangements. Click here to see this document.

 

 

 

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