Reaching out with Robins
I feel genuinely heartbroken for all those who have been denied the opportunity to properly say goodbye to their loved ones during the pandemic
Ideas
Sharing and checking the eulogy beforehand
One thing that works well for me, after meeting the family or friends, and talking about their loved one, is to write up the Tribute and then share it with them
Vigil Eucharists
Increasingly now, church families have asked for a vigil eucharist to be held on the night before a funeral.
A way to care for your local funeral director
While it's common for funeral directors to show their appreciation of those who officiate at funerals with Christmas cards, calendars and other gifts, there might be merit in taking some Easter eggs to your funeral directors in Holy Week or Easter.
When there's no body
I conducted a funeral service recently for a family where Grandma had left her body to medical science
Prayer ministry shawl
This is something that a friend has shared with me. After her Dad had died, a couple from her local church came around with a squishy, slightly irregular parcel
Remembering on Mothers Day
It is such an obvious idea in a church context, but for the last few years, we have always had a candle stand out on Mothering Sunday for people to light a candle as they come back from communion.
Monthly Memorial Service in accessible language
We have had a monthly memorial service in my parish for some years.
When children don't come to the funeral
Some families don't feel able to bring young children to family funerals. When this happens, I ask if there is a family member or friend who might take a few photos
Poppy prayers
This simple script for a prayer using poppies can involve everyone in prayers at a Remembrance service. Ensure as far as possible that everyone is given or takes a poppy as they arrive for the service.
