Losing someone we love is one of the most difficult of all human experiences, yet for a Christian death is not the end but a new beginning. Death is the gateway to eternal life. Obviously we grieve but not, as St Paul says, as unbelievers do. Our grief is tempered by our hope. At death, life is changed not ended, and the sadness of death gives way to the bright promise of immortality. We believe in the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. We are comforted by our faith and by the compassion of our brethren.
In the event of a bereavement, regardless of where the funeral is to be held, please inform Father Alex. This is so that the parish can pray for the bereaved and offer assistance. We have a bereavement team which can offer as much or as little help as needed.
If you want to have the funeral at St Gregory’s, Father Alex the Parish Priest, will guide you through the process. After choosing the date and time Father will also help you choose readings and hymns. Some people arrange their own funerals whilst they are still fit and to ease the burden on their families. There are forms available for this from the parish office.
Our usual undertakers are Bennetts: 01789 267035, here in Stratford upon Avon.
At the funeral we commend the dead to our loving Father’s safe-keeping for ever. We thank God for and celebrate their lives and all that they meant to us. We comfort each other in our grief. Further Masses can be offered for those who have died and we continue to pray for them and the bereaved. We have regular Masses for all the bereaved of the parish, followed by small socials which are a great comfort to those who mourn. As Our Blessed Lord assures us, “Blessed are those who mourn for they shall be comforted”.
Eternal rest grant unto them O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May they rest in peace.