Your loved one is entitled to a funeral in the parish in which they have lived regardless of whether he/she was a churchgoer.
Usually the funeral director will contact the Rector/clergyperson, who will then spend time with you prior to the service, and offer you their support and that of the parish afterwards.
Funerals may take place in church, at the Crematorium or at a graveside. The clergy want to ensure that your choices and those of your loved one are respected and would be happy to talk through the service with you, and, as far as is possible, to include your selection of music, poetry and readings. We will be with you at this difficult time and will assist you in planning a service that reflects the life of the deceased.
In the Autumn we hold a service at St Stephen and St Agnes Church in Vansittart Road for those who have been bereaved. We remember those who have died as we read out names and light candles. Everyone is welcome to come along.
If you have been bereaved and wish to speak with a member of clergy, do contact us - you can contact our Rector, the Revd Canon Sally Lodge (Revd Sally) here.
Our bereavement group, New Pathways, meets on the last Thursday of each month at 2pm, in the Mountbatten Room at Holy Trinity Church (Claremont Road and Trinity Place). The meeting is for anyone who has lost a loved one (whether it was recently or a while ago).
Information, which may be helpful, from the Church of England on funerals can be found here.