Funerals 

At the heart of the Christian Faith is the simple but earth-shattering assertion that Jesus died, was buried, and on the first Easter Day was raised from the dead. And in joyful hope of that resurrection we entrust our loved ones who have died into the arms of the God who raised the Lord Jesus from the grave. While many funerals take place these days entirely at a Crematorium, it is always possible to have the main service in Church followed by the committal ‘at the Crem’.  Often the use of church allows greater flexibility (and less constraint of time) than a ceremony elsewhere and here at both St James and St Chad’s we are happy for to play music, read poetry recited, and listen to tributes given by family or friends.

Every life is precious to God. And because of the death and rising to new life of Jesus, Christians have always believed that there is hope in death as in life, and that there is new life in Christ over death.

Your Parish Priest regards it a huge privilege to conduct the funerals of anyone who lives within the Parish or who have a connection with either St James or St Chads, so please do ask the Funeral Director to liaise with the parish priest Father Gary to ensure a convenient time can be chosen to allow him to take the Funeral of your Loved One, whether at the Crem or in Church. 

On the Sunday after the Funeral Service the name of your Loved One will be spoken among the Prayers for the Dead at the 8.ooam Said Mass and 11.00am Parish Mass, at St Chads and 9.30am at St James. Many families find it helpful to come to Church to hear their much-loved ones name read out and light a candle in their memory.

Every November we hold a Memorial Service in honour of the memory of those whose funerals have been taken by Priests associated with either St James or Chads, and to offer comfort and consolation to those who mourn the loss of a loved one. You would be very welcome to come if you so wish to.