The death of a loved one should be reported as soon as possible to the Clergy, so that arrangements can be made for the Liturgy of the Burial of the Dead. The liturgy for the dead is an Easter liturgy. It finds all its meaning in the resurrection. Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we, too, shall be raised.

The liturgy, therefore, is characterized by joy, in the certainty that “neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor power, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

This joy however, does not make human grief unchristian. The very love we have for each other in Christ brings deep sorrow when we are parted by death. Jesus himself wept at the grave of his friend. So, while we rejoice that one we love has entered into a nearer presence of our Lord, we sorrow in sympathy with those who mourn.

For more information about pre-planning a funeral service or to learn more about the Burial of the dead please contact the Parish Office or plan a visit with a member of the St. Paul’s clergy.