Funerals

The loss of a loved one can be a difficult and stressful time. If you choose to arrange a funeral through us, our job is to ensure that the funeral is one less thing for you to have to worry about.

Normally, you would stipulate to the funeral directors that you would like us to conduct your funeral. The funeral directors will be in touch with us, and then we will make contact with you. The officiating minister will usually be Rev Richard Chand, though we do also have some lay people who are authorised for this kind of ministry.

The person taking the funeral will first of all visit you, usually at your house. We'll chat about the deceased person, so that we can build up a picture of what they were like. We'll then talk through your choices in terms of Bible readings, hymns and other components. If you're not sure what to chose, or what choices there are, don't worry - it's our job to advise you! There may also be some informal bereavement counselling available, if required.

The funeral itself can be at the church, followed by a short service of committal at a crematorium (usually Three Counties in High Garrett), or a burial (usually either Bocking or Braintree cemetery). Alternatively, you can have the whole of the service at a crematorium or cemetery. 

A funeral does not represent the end of the mourning process, though it is an opportunity to take stock, to accept the reality of the loss, and to begin to look forward as well as back.