Memorial and Funeral Services

Planning Your Loved One's Funeral or Memorial

At Langley United, we would be honoured to be a part of your plans for a service of memorial and celebration of the life of your loved one. Be assured of our deepest sympathy to you and all who grieve this loss.

We consider a funeral or memorial service to be first and foremost a ministry that proceeds from Jesus Christ, our hope and our salvation. The primary purpose of a Christian church service is therefore to worship God, and secondly to celebrate the life of the deceased. It is a time to bring a word of comfort and inspiration to all who are grieving, and to bring a sense of closure to a relationship which has now ended.

The Worship Service

The service will follow the format outlined in the United Church of Canada Book of Services, and will be conducted by the minister of this congregation. We do not "rent out space" for secular memorial services or those conducted by ministers outside this congregation.

The minister will plan the participation of others in the service with the next-of-kin. Family members or friends are welcome to share in a "time of remembrance" during the service, often referred to as a "eulogy." We ask that the "time of remembrance" be limited to not more than 10 minutes during the service; if there are extended tributes, memories, or audio-visual presentations that people will want to share publicly, we encourage families to consider using our sound system during the reception following the service.

Music

Family members may also wish to choose music for the service (so long as it is appropriate to a church), perhaps following the wishes of the deceased. Our music director is available for most funerals.

Scripture Readings

Normally the minister will choose appropriate scripture, unless the deceased or next-of-kin has a preference for a particular reading. Please note that readings must be from the Christian Bible. Poetry or other readings may be shared during the "time of remembrance."

Flowers, Cremains, Memorabilia

Flowers are always appropriate at funerals. We have flower stands available. You may also have the cremains of the deceased present on the communion table, and/or a picture of the person. Other memorabilia is also appropriate, however the Christian symbols of the cross, and Bible may not be removed from the communion table, nor moved from their positions.

Casket Present

The difference between the terms "funeral" and "memorial" has historically been that at a funeral, the body of the deceased is present, either in a casket or an urn. This is done less often in our culture, but is still entirely appropriate. Please note that you must provide a set of strong, healthy pall-bearers, as caskets must be brought up the front steps of our church.

Hostess/Host

A host or hostess will be provided for your service and/or reception. The host will be here for you to make you comfortable, answer your questions, and meet your needs before, during and after the service.

Receptions

Active Church Members
Depending upon the availability of our United Church Women, receptions including tea, coffee, juice and sweets may be arranged. You are welcome to provide further catering. A donation to the Langley UCW is customary.
Non-members
Please check with the church office regarding the availability of the hall for a reception for which you would be responsible for all catering.

Financial Arrangements

ACTIVE CHURCH MEMBERS
Musician: $125.00
Reception: by donation to the Langley UCW

NON-MEMBERS
Minister: $175.00
Church: $150.00
Musician: $125.00
Host: $50.00
Total: $500.00

Hall Rental: $100.00
Committal only: $200.00