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Northminster Presbyterian Church
Funeral Guidelines and Policy
These guidelines are written for members to plan their funerals, and to help families of members who have died. Over the past few decades the church has gotten away from ancient Christian practices. This policy hopes to bring back time-tested Christian tradition and practice at funerals. We encourage a pre-planning conversation with the pastor.
At time of death the pastor should be contacted. Telephone numbers are below. The pastor may go with the family to the Funeral home, or should be contacted immediately by the Funeral Director to check the church calendar.
Funerals are for the deceased. This is the time the church gathers and journeys together to burial. Therefore, whenever possible, the body of the member who has died should be present in the sanctuary for the funeral service. One picture of the deceased may be placed on an easel or small table in the sanctuary, a large table for pictures and mementos may be placed in the narthex. Pictures and mementos are never placed on the communion table. We cannot accommodate video displays.
Visitation may take place before or after the Funeral. The church’s Congregational Care Committee has a policy that encourages receptions after the funeral. The casket may be open before and/or during the Funeral service, but normally it is closed for the service.
There is no charge for services at Northminster, nor is there a fee for the officiant. The organist or accompanist should be paid a minimum of $75, and $100 if he/she rehearses with a soloist. Soloists or ensembles from the Northminster choir may sing. The congregation should sing at least one hymn. This is a Christian worship service; the Bible should be read, prayers offered, and words of hope shared. The font, table, and pulpit will always be present. The minister may allow up to two short speeches about the deceased member.
Normally, a funeral pall will be placed on the casket or urn as it enters the sanctuary. The American flag may cover the casket of a veteran.
Normally the burial rites of clubs and fraternal organizations are conducted at graveside after the minister concludes the burial service. Rites may also be conducted at the lodge, clubhouse, union hall, etc. Upon request of both the family and fraternal organization, the Session will consider allowing rites to be performed at Northminster after the funeral.
When there is a question about this policy the pastor and/or Session will clarify it. If the pastor is unavailable at time of death the Director of Christian Education and Music, Mr. Randolph should be contacted, or the Elder in charge of Congregational Care.
Adopted by Session
May 18, 2010
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