The community of Good Shepherd is saddened by your loss and we are here for support as you mourn the death of your loved one.
We believe that as Christians we are called to trust God’s promise in baptism—that we are claimed by Christ forever, therefore we rest in the hope of the resurrection. We believe that because Jesus Christ was raised from the dead, we, too, shall be raised. The funeral liturgy, therefore, is characterized by hope, joy, and certainty that “neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor things present, nor things to come, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” The burial liturgy is an Easter liturgy and always finds its meaning in the resurrection. With this in mind, the primary emphasis in the funeral liturgy is expressing hope in the resurrection while mourning the immediate loss in death.
The following are guides for a funeral at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church.
Day & Time
Please make arrangements for the memorial service day and time with the Church Office and Pastor. We understand that the need for a memorial service often arises suddenly. We will help you find a time when there is not a scheduled church activity.
Sanctuary Arrangements
The color of the banners and altar cloths (paraments) in the sanctuary are coordinated with the church year calendar. They are not changed for the memorial service. Please coordinate with the front office for flower deliveries.
Music
Music, both instrument and vocal selections, will be in keeping with the spirit of Christian worship. If the church musician is not used, they must be approved by the pastor. If you have an additional musician for a special piece, please coordinate with the pastor. Also, make arrangements with the Church office if you will be using recorded music.
Readers
Having loved ones read scripture can be a meaningful way to participate in the service. When reading the person should only say what is written in the bulletin.
Speakers
If you would like for family members or friends to share some reflections on the life of the deceased, please speak with the Pastor. A brief time to share such memories may be included in the service. Here is what is required of speakers.
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- In order to keep the service timely there should only be 3 speakers or less.
- Each speaker will talk for a maximum of 5 minutes.
- All Speakers must have a written manuscript. (This insures they are able to mindfully share their thoughts about the deceased and also gives the pastor something to read if they are not able finish).
Clergy
Good Shepherd’s Pastor will participate in all funeral/memorial services. If there are other clergy or church leaders you wish to invite to participate in the service, please inform the Pastor.
Parishioners fees are as follows:
Organist/Pianist: $250
Sound/Video Tech: $150 (an additional $50.00 an hour after 4 hours)
Pastor: $400 (Suggested Honorarium)
Non-Parishioner fees are as follows:
Organist/Pianist: $300
Sound/Video Tech: $200 (an additional $50.00 an hour after 4 hours)
Pastor: $500
Please see Banquet Hall/ Room Rental page for more info.