Funerals

It is true, as the Prayer Book says, that “the liturgy for the dead is an Easter liturgy.  It finds its meaning in the resurrection.”  The Prayer Book also reminds us that “the very love we have for each other in Christ brings deep sorrow when we are parted by death.”  The liturgy itself includes these words: “All of us go down to the dust; yet even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.”

Other instruction from the Prayer Book:

• The death of a member of the Church should be reported as soon as possible to, and arrangements for the funeral should be made in consultation with, the Minister of the Congregation.
• Baptized Christians are properly buried from the church. The service should be held at a time when the congregation has opportunity to be present.
• The casket/coffin is to be closed before the service, and it remains closed thereafter. It is appropriate that it be covered with a pall or other suitable covering.
• If necessary, or if desired, all or part of the service of Committal may be said in the church. If preferred, the Committal service may take place before the service in the church. It may also be used prior to cremation.
• A priest normally presides at the service.

At St. Christopher’s the clergy are prepared to engage in close consultation for the planning of funerals or memorial services. Please do not hesitate to contact the clergy at the news of the death of a loved one.

Funeral services are available for both members and non-members of the parish. Please contact the Parish office for pricing.

Churchyard Burial

Simple graves mark the lawn southwest of the church building in the area called the Churchyard. Members of St. Christopher’s may be buried here, and others at the discretion of the Rector. The design of uniform gravestones and the low drywall that designates the Cremation area are planned for an effect of stillness and peace, with a feeling of openness and space.

The church provides perpetual care for the grave sites. Cut flowers and potted plants are permitted for a limited time on certain occasions. Permanent plantings are not permitted on or near graves.

Gravesites

Parishioners may purchase an individual or a family of gravesites by inquiring at the office (610-642-8920 or katiegibbs@saintchristophers.org)

Deed

A Certificate of Right of Sepulcher (a deed) is issued as proof of ownership which is in perpetuity. If not used, a certificate may be sold back to St. Christopher’s Church for the purchase price.

Head Stones

Headstones must conform to those in the Churchyard, that is, height: 3 1/2 feet from the surface of the ground, width: 22 inches, and thickness not to exceed 3 inches. Stones must be white marble or light gray Vermont granite.

In the Cremation Area stones must be light gray granite flat stones, flush to the ground 24 inches long by 8 inches wide and 4 inches. The church office must approve the final design of all memorial stones.

Headstones may be purchased from any company. One that has provided excellent service for many years is H.C. Wood Monument Co., Lansdowne, PA (610-622-0550).

Funeral Homes

Any undertaker may be engaged for services at St. Christopher’s. Funeral homes will assist with all planning, cemetery arrangements, required forms, obituaries, the choice of burial cases, miscellaneous church fees and other names.

Memorials

The Memorial fund is a popular way for parishioners and friends to give in memory of loved ones. The fund supports a variety of needs including but not limited to upkeep of the building and the grounds, guest preachers, and memorial hymns.

Donations are documented in a memorial book. Plaques along the church hallway list the loved ones whom have been honored.

Those interested in donating to the Memorial Fund may contact the office.