Funeral Policy at St Peter’s Church, Oundle

Introduction

At the funeral, the opening words are often: “Jesus said: I am the resurrection and the life”. The promise of life is held out by Jesus to all who will receive Him. He said: “I will never turn away anyone who comes to me.”

1. Initial contact is usually made via the funeral director to the parish office or the clergy. The time, date and venue is arranged between the family, clergy, church and the funeral director.
2. Clergy visit the bereaved family and arrange details of the church service, liaising with the funeral director concerning the order of service to be published.
3. The verger and organist are informed by the Parish Administrator if the service is to be held in church.
4. A notice is displayed in the porch by the Parish Administrator so that parishioners know that the service is taking place.
5. The verger and organist are paid directly by the funeral director at the funeral. The clergy receive travelling expenses at the funeral but the PCC fee and the Diocesan fee go directly to the Treasurer. (The PCC fee is for the use of the building and the Diocesan fee goes towards the payment of clergy stipends throughout the Diocese).
6. CD music can be played over the church PA system as required.
7. Each funeral service, whilst following a familiar pattern, will be unique to the family and should reflect something of the character and personality of the deceased.
8. Following a church service, cremations are usually held at either Peterbrough or Kettering Crematoria and burials at Stoke Doyle Road Cemetery. Ashes may be interred in the cremated remains area in St Peter’s churchyard or at the Town Cemetery.
9. If a service is held entirely at a crematorium or a cemetery, the service will be the same in nature as it would be in church although there are strict time constraints at crematoria.
10. Follow-up visits from Clergy, Pastoral Assistants or Pastoral Visiting team are offered.

RO/smc
Last revised - June 2008