When someone we love dies, life takes on a whole new set of challenges. It may be that the one we love has battled long and hard against an illness, or it could be that this has been a sudden loss which no one could have anticipated. Whatever the circumstances, no one can really prepare us for what it feels like.
Questions
Who can ask for the Minister’s Help?
The short answer is – anyone. Because the Church of Scotland is a national church, anyone may call on the services of our minister. This may be during a long illness, when life is ending, or in the immediate aftermath.
When do we call the minister in?
Whenever you feel it may help. Very often, the minister only knows a death has taken place when the funeral director calls. However, the minister is always happy to be called to support a family during illness, and around hospital stays.
Do I need to be a member of the church to use the Church?
No. Stepps Parish Church is a Parish Church. It is for anyone who lives in the Parish or has a family connection to the parish, and they may use the church for a funeral service.
How do we plan the funeral?
Occasionally, people make their wishes known in advance, and it may be that there is already a written plan, including hymns, for example. The minister can even help with this pre-planning. Often, it is not until after the loved one has died that the family to wonder what to do. Many people begin by contacting the Funeral Director who will liaise with the minister regarding availability. The funeral director will pass on your contact information and the minister will phone to arrange a time to talk about the service. At the meeting you will be asked about important events in the family history; such as when your loved one was born; which schools they attended, first jobs, their relationships and so on. Listening to you talk about your loved one helps the minister to picture them, tell their story and then choose appropriate music, readings, poems and prayers. We want to make this difficult time as bearable as possible. We will do all we can to support, care, and carry out your wishes at this time. Please contact the minister if you have further questions.
What does it cost to use the church?
There is a small fee for the use of the church, the services of the organist and the church officer (the funeral director will look after this for you). There is no fee for the services of the minister.
How do I get in touch & find out more?
Please call our Minister Rev. Gordon MacRae if you wish to talk about this or any other matter.
Telephone 0141 779 5742 | Mobile 07703 163206
