Funerals
For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor rulers, 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. -- Romans 8:38-39
You are not alone.
We believe that the bereaved should be upheld by the Christian community. The pastor, staff, and members of First Presbyterian are here to extend concern and sympathy and assist in making arrangements. The Board of Deacons will provide a reception for the family and friends of a church member, if desired. Receptions are held immediately following the worship service.
Please call the pastor when a loved one is critically ill or has died. Our pastor will want to support you by offering prayer and counsel. The pastor will also help you determine an appropriate time for a funeral or memorial service and assist you in its planning.
Funeral or Memorial Service?
At a funeral, the body of the loved one is present in a casket; at a memorial service, the body is not present. Presbyterians believe that internment, cremation and donation for medical purposes are equally acceptable. The choice between a funeral and a memorial service is a matter of personal preference.
A funeral or memorial is a worship service. It is a witness to God's love for all people, a love which strengthens and supports even in the midst of grief. Emphasis is placed on the reading of scripture and the declaration of hope. Words about the life of the one who has died and thanks to God for that life are also included. Prayers for the family and friends of the deceased are intrinsic to this service.
In the event a casket is present, it will be closed during the worship service so that attention may be directed to God alone. The casket will be covered with a white pall. If the deceased is a veteran, a tri-folded flag may be placed on a stand beside the casket. A single portrait may be displayed on a stand in the sanctuary and flowers may be arranged in appropriate locations.
Burial
Normally a brief committal service is held at the graveside immediately following a funeral service. Ashes may be buried or scattered.
Edge Taylor Cope Memorial Garden
Outside of Knox Fellowship Hall is a memorial garden which contains the ashes of many of our loved ones. This garden is maintained with loving care. You may prearrange internment of your ashes in the garden.
