Funerals and Memorials
We welcome you to make arrangements for either a funeral or memorial service for your loved one. While funeral services are generally held shortly after a person’s death, memorial services may be held at a later date, at the convenience of the family. It is helpful, however, for the family to discuss the details and date with the Minister prior to making other arrangements. We can help you to minimize the stress at such a difficult time.
A funeral or memorial service is most meaningful when it reflects the interests, values and beliefs of the deceased in the music, readings and prayers chosen. The ministerial staff members are available to help you in making these choices. Services may be held in the Sanctuary, or sometimes in another location.
Please contact the church office if you would like more information at: admin@pacificspirituc.com
Funerals and Memorials Brochure Information
To families who are planning a memorial service for a loved one:
The congregation of the Pacific Spirit United Church offers you our support during this difficult time. We would like to help in whatever way possible immediately following the death, and trust that you will feel free to let us know how we might help you in the days and in the months that follow.
If you are considering using the Pacific Spirit United Church for funeral or memorial arrangements, perhaps the following outline will help you know what to expect. We will do our best to accommodate your wishes, as we are able.
Planning the Service:
You will be put in touch with the minister to talk about date and time of service and the details and people that will be part of it. You are welcome to come to the church with friends or family to share in this planning meeting.
Cost of Service:
There is no fee for a service. But when people ask for guidance about a donation, we suggest something like $1300. This covers: the use of the church, the honoraria for one clergy, one accompanist, a technician and the custodian.
You can make a donation by cash or cheque to Pacific Spirit United Church. Or etransfer:
donations@pacificspirituc.com
If your name and address are on the cheque or in the note section of the etransfer, we will be able to issue a
charitable tax receipt. No family will be refused funeral services for financial reasons.
Refreshments and Receptions:
You are welcome to host a reception across the street from the stone church at the Memorial Centre.
Please note, we are an alcohol-free premises. We have a larger hall for big gatherings, and a smaller room and kitchen for more intimate groups. Some people contract with professional caterers, some have friends and family prepare and serve. Dishes are available and our administrator will show you what is available in the kitchen for preparation and cleanup. All groups using kitchen and hall are responsible for ensuring that the facilities are left in a clean and tidy manner.
Music:
Music is healing in our grief. We have a piano and an organ and gifted musicians available to you. The minister will put you in contact with the musician for special requests. You are most welcome to bring your own friends or family members to play or sing at a service.
Technical Support:
The sanctuary is equipped with microphones. We have capabilities for projecting computer Power Point presentations and sometimes we are able to livestream the service. We recommend that allvideo presentations be pre-screened on the church’s equipment at least one day before the service to check for technical compatibility. The Minister will put you in touch with our Technical Coordinator to answer specific questions and requests. Memorial Gifts: The Pacific Spirit United Church has a Memorial Gift Fund. It is used for special projects
that enhance the worship experience. Rather than the use of plaques or other visible markings, the gifts are entered into a Memorial Gift Fund book in the name of your loved one. Flowers and Special Items: You can arrange for the delivery of flowers, picture boards or other items with the minister or funeral director if you are using one. These may be placed either in the sanctuary for the service or in the hall for the reception.