Jesus said, “In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven.”
– Matthew 5:16
Regional funeral workshops open to all
Guiding light: a workshop on funeral ministry
One of the most impactful ministries we have as Anglicans in our Diocese is funeral ministry. Our liturgies reflect a compassionate, inclusive tone, while providing an environment of pastoral care by our parish leaders. Celebrations of Life, whether in a church, funeral chapel or at a graveside, can connect people with a loving God and a warmhearted faith community.
Parish lay leaders, especially Licensed Lay Ministers, Vocational Deacons, and others, are being called to share in this pastoral office. As local ministers, they are often familiar with the families and communities. The Spirit is leading our Diocese to embrace more fully the ministry of all the baptized in this area.
Over the next few months, our Diocese is sponsoring, GUIDING LIGHT: A Workshop on Funeral Ministry. These free regional in-person training sessions are open to all Licensed Lay Ministers, any lay person who desires to know more (perhaps to be part of a funeral team), and any cleric who seeks a refresher session.
Some of the topics to be explored:
- Wakes / Vigils / Visitations
- Funeral planning with next of kin
- Burial options
- Eulogies / Words of Remembrance
- Homilies / Reflections
- Post-funeral follow-up
Participants will receive tip sheets and templates for planning. Woven into this training session, will be some of the missional opportunities that funerals present to local congregations as we respond to the needs of those who are grieving. In some neighbourhoods, we are the only faith community that remains.
This is an explorative workshop, thus there is no expectation that participation will require a commitment to funeral ministry.
GUIDING LIGHT is hosted on Saturdays, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Details about arrangements are published on the Diocesan website (www.nspeidiocese.ca), Facebook page and in the Net News.
CAPE BRETON REGION: Saturday, Sept. 30 at Christ the King, Sydney, NS.
Registration is required.
Sign up here:
www.surveymonkey.com/r/GUIDINGLIGHT
LOGO / PHOTO:
Photo by Michanne Lisa on Unsplash.
