Funerals
As Christians, we believe that death is a part of God's plan of salvation. It is a time for mourning and a time for bittersweet celebration as we remember the life of a loved one and give thanks for the promise of victory over death by our faith in Jesus Christ. At St. Matt's, we are glad to offer you a place to remember, rest, grieve, and hope. You do not need to walk the path alone; let us join you and God as you make your way.
Below is a passage from our Book of Common Prayer (page 507).
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 powers, 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 the nearer presence of our Lord, we sorrow in sympathy with those who mourn.
To inquire about a funeral, please be in touch with Marissa or call the church office (203) 762-7400.
