Funerals at St George's
The Funeral Service
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 for the life which has now completed its journey in this world and to commend the person to God.
The priest will meet with you and your familiy to discuss plans for your loved one's funeral, including if desired, tributes, favourite prayers, poems, hymns and music. Readings and prayers are chosen carefully to fit the occasion. The service may be a large gathering or an intimate gathering. When appropriate the funeral service can be set into the context of a service of Holy Communion. Whatever the pattern of service, the words and actions all speak of a loving God and the preciousness of every human being.
The vicar of St George's is also able to take funeral services at the crematorium or graveside if you do not wish to have a service in church. Likewise we can arrange services for the burial of ashes, either in the Garden of Remembrance, or elsewhere.
Cremation or Burial
Usually funeral services at St George's continue at the local crematorium or cemetery in Dukinfield.
St George's Churchyard is no longer open for new graves. Burials in the churchyard can only be made in existing family graves where there is space (i.e. depth). It may alternatively be possible to inter ashes in an existing family grave. There is also a Garden of Remembrance in which ashes (without a casket) can be interred, including for those without an existing family grave. We will be able to advise on the options available.
The scattering of ashes is prohibited in Church of England cemeteries.
Funeral directors will be pleased to advise about alternative places of burial. Here is one example of a directory listing on the internet.
Bereavement Support
If you would like to speak with someone following the death of a loved one, please contact the vicar. You are welcome to come to church to say a prayer and light a candle in memory of your loved one. There is also a Book of Remembrance in which your loved one's name can be added, available of course, regardless of whether your loved one is buried at St. George's.
We have a pastoral team who can offer ongoing support by arrangement, and Tameside also has a Bereavement Service available.
Please also look at the Church of England Funerals website.
