Funerals

Christians believe that the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ give them hope and cause for thanksgiving in the face of death. In this faith we entrust those who have died to the infinite mercy and love of God. A Methodist funeral service acknowledges this hope and offers bereaved people the opportunity to remember their loved one’s life and offer them into God’s care.
[Methodist Church web-site]

The death of a loved one is naturally a distressing time. You can feel a range of different emotions and the need to arrange for the funeral is yet one more concern adding to the bewilderment. Together with the funeral director, the minister and church can help you in dealing with the funeral service and support you in the days and years to come.

When arranging a funeral, it is suggested that, in the first instance, you contact a funeral director. You can also contact the church, if you wish, but normally the funeral director contacts the minister and arranges when the minister and the church will be available. If you want to make contact yourself, you can contact the minister on *****-****** or by going via the Church Office on 0121-705-7367 or by using our contact page here.

If a church is involved, there are normally two religious services: a short commital service at the crematorium or burial site, and a longer service at the church. These normally happen on the same day, one after the other, in either order. If the church service is the second, then it is often regarded as a service of thanksgiving for the life of the loved one.

The minister of the church will get in touch to arrange to visit you. The minister will be concerned for your grief and your current needs. The minister will discuss with you what you would like in the church service: appropriate hymns, readings, flowers, music, and so on – and also the form of tribute for your loved one in the service.

On the day of the funeral, the minister will meet you at the service(s) and conduct what happens with reverence in accordance with your wishes expressed when you were visited. Following the funeral, the minister and the church will be happy to stay in touch with you according to your needs.

The Methodist Church centrally has some guidance notes on arranging funerals which you may find helpful: just click here.

Frequently asked questions

Is there a fee? Yes, the funeral director will discuss this with you and normally pays the church directly.

I would like a particular poem read, is this allowed? Yes: do discuss your wishes with the minister.

Can I request particular music in the church? It is possible to play most musical requests, either from a CD or on the organ or piano: please let the minister or church know at least a few days beforehand.

Can I show pictures of my loved one during the service? Yes, it is possible to show pictures via a digital projector: please provide suitable electronic forms of the pictures at least a few days beforehand.

Is it possible for me or others to speak about my loved one in the service? Yes certainly: please discuss this with the minister when you are visited.

Can an order of service be printed? This is normally arranged by the funeral director.

Can I obtain a recording of the service? Yes, it is possible for the church to record onto various media: please discuss this with the minister when you are visited.

Can there be an offertory box at the door for donations to a chosen charity? Yes: this is usually arranged by the funeral director.