Regional funeral workshops open to all
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 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.
Facilitators are Rev. Dr. Debra Burleson, former Archdeacon and AST Formation Director, and Rev. Canon Lisa Vaughn, Parish Vitality Coordinator.
Some of the topics explored:
- Wakes / Visitations
- Funeral planning with next of kin
- Burial options
- Eulogies / Words of Remembrance
- Homilies / Reflections
- Post-funeral follow-up
Participants receive tip sheets and templates for planning. Woven into this training session are the MISSIONAL opportunities that funerals present as we respond to the needs of those who are grieving. In some neighbourhoods, we are the only faith community.
This is an explorative workshop, thus there is no expectation that participation will require a commitment to funeral ministry. Diocesan protocols, policies and Bishop’s expectations are addressed.
GUIDING LIGHT runs on SATURDAYS, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
CAPE BRETON REGION: Sept. 30 – Christ the King, Sydney, NS.
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND/DCS: Oct. 28 – St. Mark’s, Kensington, PE
VALLEY REGION: Nov. 4 – location T.B.A.
NORTHUMBRIA REGION Nov. 18 – location T.B.A.
Other Regions’ arrangements will be communicated as soon as they are finalized.
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED.
SIGN UP HERE – www.surveymonkey.com/r/GUIDINGLIGHT
Contact: Lisa for more information [email protected] or 902-789-4840.
