A Good Funeral

A few years ago, I attended the funeral of a former teacher of mine. He was a marvelous man whose wisdom, humor and compassion made an enormous impact on my life. I was deeply sad to lose him.

His funeral was a marvelous celebration – one of those gatherings I like to call, “a good funeral.” The preacher shared memories but also spoke clearly and powerfully of Christ’s resurrection promise. Friends and former students of my teacher gave heartfelt eulogies. The music was well-chosen and heavy on congregational songs. (There is nothing better than singing together at funerals, I think.) After burial and a meal, family and friends stuck around the church to reconnect and tell stories. It was sad and wonderful. A very good funeral.

The death of a loved one is a time of profound grief and sorrow. It is also a time when our faith and faith community can offer great comfort. Trinity, as a congregation, has long cherished this kind of ministry. From end-of-life to funeral and grief/loss support, we see these ministries as a way to share God’s healing love with members and non-members alike. 

Funeral Meals and Radical Hospitality
Ten years ago, Trinity created funeral serving teams of both men and women to continue the funeral lunch ministry once provided by TLC’s women’s circles. This new ministry has been an enormous success. Families and guests at funerals regularly comment on the compassion of these meal teams. And many volunteers love their time together. “We have so much fun,” one recently shared. Team members are “on” for a month at a time, and only serve when they are able.  Mary Charlson, who has led this ministry since its beginning, recently passed the baton to Ellie Koester and a group of other leaders. If you would like to get involved, contact Ellie or the church office. It’s such a powerful ministry.

Trinity’s Columbarium
The landscaping on Trinity’s columbarium is nearly complete. There is now a concrete pad around the structure, flower planters, a newly planted tulip tree nearby, and a new bench on the way. A number of inurnments have already taken place and about a third of the existing niches are already reserved. The west side of the columbarium is a memorial wall. This allows those who are (or will be) buried elsewhere to have their names inscribed on the structure. Interested in learning more? Contact the office or one of the pastors.

Prayers and Support
We pray regularly for those in our community who have lost loved ones – in worship, in Bible studies and through our prayer teams. Sometimes our greatest need for support comes months or even years after a loss. Grief support groups and bereavement ministry through cards, calls and visits are another way we care at TLC. If you know someone who could use help, invite them to reach out to staff member, friend or grief specialist in our community. Or ask permission to call us on their behalf. 

Everyone experiences loss and death. Jesus knew this and promised us comfort. Thank you for sharing this important ministry at Trinity!†