Funerals

Martha said to Jesus, ‘Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that God will give you whatever you ask of him.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Your brother will rise again.’ Martha said to him, ‘I know that he will rise again in the resurrection on the last day.’John 11.21-24

As Christians we believe in life after death through the saving power of Jesus Christ. When we lose someone dear we can feel the loss deeply and it can be difficult to know which way to turn. At times like this we seek to support you as Christ supports us all. If there are practical things you need to arrange please contact the Bowbrook group office on 01905 778181 or email to bowbrookgroup1@gmail.com and they will be happy to help (Tuesday to Thursday 0900 to 1530).

Your Funeral Director will most likely have already checked with the clergy to see who will be taking the service for your loved one. 

(If you are looking for details on memorials in churchyards then please look at the Downloads page).

To help at your time of loss, below are some prayers that you may find useful:

Prayers

O God, who brought us to birth,
and in whose arms we die,
in our grief and shock
contain and comfort us;
embrace us with your love,
give us hope in our confusion
and grace to let go into new life;
through Jesus Christ. Amen.

Heavenly Father, you have not made us for darkness and death,
but for life with you for ever.
Without you we have nothing to hope for;
with you we have nothing to fear.
Speak to us now your words of eternal life.
Lift us from anxiety and guilt
to the light and peace of your presence,
and set the glory of your love before us;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lord, we come into your presence to remember our loved one
and to seek your comfort,
for we know that nothing can separate us from your love
and that you support us in our sorrow.
We are sure that the souls of the righteous are with you
and that nothing can harm them.
Although they have died they are in peace.
Give us your strength to rejoice
that you have taken our loved oneto be with yourself
where he/she shall no more be in need.
May we find life and peace and perfect joy with him/her in your presence;
through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Lord, be with us as we open the door.
Come in with us, go out with us.
Do not sleep when we sleep,
but watch over us, protect us and keep us safe,
our only helper and maker. Amen.