CHURCH OF THE ROSES
A Caring, Committed, Christian Community

PLANNING A
MEMORIAL SERVICE
Responding to the death of a loved one is never easy. We want to do everything possible to support you in this often-traumatic time.
 
When Death Occurs
When death occurs, please notify the church at once. One of the pastors will come or meet you as soon as possible to assist and support you in whatever ways are meaningful and helpful. In particular, the pastor is prepared to listen and support you as you share your grief and your memories, to pray with you, and to share the resources of Holy Scripture with you. When you are ready, the pastor also will help you plan an appropriate memorial service. The pastor is the one in charge of all aspects of the service.

The Service of Worship
The service is not lengthy but full of dignity. It always includes prayer, reading from Holy Scripture, and a brief affirmation of the Christian hope for life everlasting in Jesus Christ. Ordinarily the service includes hymns sung by the congregation, a responsive reading of a psalm, and an affirmation of faith. It also may include one or more “tributes,” lifting up the life and accomplishments of the deceased. Such “tributes” should be both concise and well-rehearsed. Holy Communion may be a part of the service of worship, if desired, though approval of Session will be required. Following the service, a reception may be held with refreshments provided by the Deacons.

Music at the Service
All music at the service of worship is to be music that intentionally glorifies God and celebrates the Christian hope in Jesus Christ. Hymns chosen for use in the service should be affirming and positive, glorifying God and lifting up our hope in Jesus Christ. The pastor will offer guidance in choosing appropriate hymns.

In Conclusion
The church wants to do everything possible to support you at the time when a loved one dies. In addition to the support of pastors and special services, we want to remember that our faith is the best support of all. Hence, these words from Scripture are offered as the most appropriate conclusion possible:

I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord. Those who believe in me shall live, even though they die. And whoever lives and believes in me shall never die. [John 11:25-26]

I am sure 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. [Romans 8:38-39]

Our Fees

The Church. There is no fee for members of Church of the Roses.
The fee for non-members is $100
The Pastor. There is no fee for members of Church of the Roses.
The fee for non-members is $480
The Organist. The organist’s fee is $150
A Church-Provided Soloist. The soloist’s fee is $75

CHURCH OF THE ROSES
2500 Patio Court Santa Rosa, California 95405
 
Phone: 707-542-4272
Fax: 707-542-5109
E-mail: office@churchroses.org
 

Memorial Information Flyer in PDF

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