Funerals at Christ Church
About Funerals
At Christ Church, as in all Christian Churches, we believe very deeply in our Lord’s promise of eternal life to all who have put their faith in Christ. We certainly view the services for burial of the dead as a solemn moment in the life of the Church, reminding us all of our physical mortality. However, we also see this time as one in which we can be reminded to give thanks again to God for caring about us enough to send His Son that we might have the gift of eternal life.
When Death Occurs: When the death of a member of the church occurs, one of the parish clergy should be called as soon as possible and arrangements for the funeral/memorial service made in consultation with them.
Burial from the Church: Baptized Christians, having been nurtured in the Church, are properly buried from the Church.
Pall for the Coffin: A pall to cover the coffin during the service in the Church is provided by the parish. The pall reminds us of the equality of all people before God.
Flowers: Flowers are only allowed on the reredos. It is the family’s responsibility to provide flowers if they are desired. We have a working relationship with Plantscapes Flower Shop (971-5477). If you go elsewhere, please let us know. A member of our Altar Guild will communicate with your florist to provide parameters for floral arrangements.
The Liturgy: The Funeral Liturgy will follow the forms of The Burial of the Dead as found in the Book of Common Prayer. Although not required, a celebration of Holy Communion is an appropriate expression of Christian worship at a funeral.
It is most appropriate to sing hymns during the Burial of the Dead service. The selection of hymns, prayers, scripture and other details of the service is done in consultation with the clergy. (Please consult our funeral arrangement form for suggestions.)
Participation in the Liturgy: Family and friends are encouraged to take part in the service. We do not encourage eulogies or remembrances at the service. These are best left to be presented afterwards at a reception or shared amongst friends and family. We suggest the following ways for friends and family to participate in the funeral:
Reading the scripture
Reading the Prayers of the People
Appropriate musical solo
Memorials: Memorial gifts are inscribed in our Book of Remembrance. This book records the names of those in whose memory gifts have been given to the church at the time of their death. This fund provides valuable additions to our ministry – both programmatic and building.
Funeral Expenses: While expenses in connection with the funeral are for the family to decide, please remember that it is fitting to keep funeral expenses at a minimum. There is no charge for the use of the church. If an organist is desired, that fee is $200.
Receptions: Currently, Covid-19 restrictions do not allow for receptions in our facility. Once those are lifted, we can offer our Parish Hall for the family to meet and greet folks after the funeral. We will provide, coffee, lemonade and water. Should you desire to serve food, we can suggest any of the following catering options:
Wegmans – 100 Wegmans Way, Charlottesville, VA 22902 434-529-3200 – see booklet on web. Will deliver.
https://www.wegmans.com/content/dam/wegmans/pdf/catering/summer/Wegmans-Catering.pdf
Foods of All Nations -2121 Ivy Road, Charlottesville, VA 22903 434-296-6131 - pretty reasonable sandwich and salad platters, ham biscuits, deviled eggs, baked treats
Tilman’s – 406 E. Main St., Charlottesville, VA 22902 – 434-566-0777 - Tilman’s is on downtown mall, will make beautiful and very elegant charcuterie and cheese platters, baguette sandwiches and salads too. Slightly more unusual and gourmet ingredients.
DaH Catering – dahcatering.com email: dahcatering.chef@gmail.com, 434-960-6091or Lindsey Stevens: stevens.lindsey.anne@gmail.com