Funerals

Graves in the sun

A funeral marks the close of a human life on earth. It is the opportunity for friends and family to express their grief, to give thanks and celebrate the life which has now completed its journey in this world and to commend the person into God’s keeping.

A funeral service, whether in a parish church or a crematorium chapel, may be very short and quiet with only a few members of the family present, or an occasion with music, hymns and a packed church. 
 
If you want the vicar of St John's to take the service, please contact her before any other funeral arrangements are made to make sure that the church and the vicar are available.

 

The funeral director plays a very important part in all these arrangements and will want to know if the funeral is to be in the parish church or if it is to take place at the crematorium. Two local funeral directors are:

  • J Waite & Son 01943 872485
  • Donald Pickles & Son 01943 462185 or 01943 87522

 

After the Funeral 
St John's is part of the bereavement care team covering the villages of Burley and Menston. Referrals usually come from the local clergy. They offer a listening ear to those who need support after the loss of a loved one. 

During the season of Advent, a Memory Tree is placed in church. Names of loved ones can be added to the tree.
 

Memorial Garden 
St John's has a small area in the churchyard set aside for the interrring of ashes. It is regularly maintained and provides an area where families can place fresh flowers to remember a loved one. It is overlooked by a wooden bench and in the springtime is carpeted with snowdrops and celandines. 
 

Memorial Plaques
A kerbstone has been placed round the Garden of Remembrance and arrangements can be made for plaques in memory of loved ones to be installed. An information leaflet and application form can be found at the back of church or contact the Parish Office.
 

Annual Memorial Service 
On All Souls Sunday, usually at the beginning of November, St John's holds a service to remember the departed. This is a quiet, reflective service remembering those who have died and is an opportunity to light a candle in their memory.

 


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