Memorial Services
The Rector at St. Paul's is available to meet with you, pray with you and help you plan a funeral or memorial service in times of loss. We also offer a columbarium, where the remains of the deceased can be preserved and honored.
The Service Used at St. Paul's
Those who have been active members in the Church will wish to use the rites of the Church. These usually take place in the church itself. The normal funeral service is The Burial of the Dead as found in the current Book of Common Prayer. Either traditional (Rite One) or Contemporary English (Rite Two) may be chosen. For active members of the Episcopal Church, the service may also include the celebration of the Eucharist. The usual celebrant for the Burial Office and Eucharist will be the rector of St. Paul’s Church. Other clergy may officiate or participate only with prior permission. No other rites or ceremonies may be added to the Church’s service without express permission. Eulogies or personal remembrances are permitted within reason.
Flowers
The use of flower arrangements is encouraged, particularly those that can subsequently be used for church services. Unusually large arrangements are to be discouraged. The alternative of donations to a charity or other worthy cause should be considered.
Music
The funeral service is a religious rite and the choice of music must be appropriate. Non-classical secular music, however significant to the family or the deceased, is not appropriate. Please consult with the Rector about the availability of the church organist for your service.
Closed Casket
The custom of the Episcopal Church is for a closed casket. A pall (embroidered cloth) is used as a covering. Families are asked to respect this custom.
Receptions in the Parish Hall
The Parish Hall may be used for a reception following the funeral service, subject to availability. A reasonable donation will be expected from the family to cover clean up. For departed members of St Paul’s and their families, the Episcopal Church Women may be contacted for special arrangements.
Arrangements for those who have not been active members of St Paul’s or another Episcopal Church may be made in consultation with the rector and at their discernment.
St. Paul’s Columbarium
Since the mid-twentieth century, we have provided space for the cremated remains of parishioners beneath the altar. We are now offering a permanent resting place for our loved ones within the grounds of our spiritual home in a beautifully crafted columbarium. The monument is located in the large alcove in the enclosed walkway between our church and Parish Hall. This accessible location ensures that our loved ones are at the center of our daily life and remain in our hearts and minds for generations to come.
The Columbarium was built by parishioner and master carpenter Rob Whelan. The design is simple and elegant, with a single Celtic cross at the center. The primary material is quarter sawn white oak with a marine-grade finish to ensure durability and longevity. It can accommodate 80 niches, each about one foot cubic and bearing a bronze name plate. Each niche is $2,000 ($1,500 of which is tax-deductible) and has ample room for two cremains.
If you are interested in purchasing a niche or would like to see detailed plans, please call the church office by phone (707) 433-2107 or email.
