Key facts
| Burial or cremation | Either is fine |
|---|---|
| Where | Parish church, crematorium chapel, cemetery chapel or graveside |
| Who can have one | Anyone living in the parish may ask the local vicar, regardless of church attendance |
| Churchyard burial | Parishioners may be able to be buried in the churchyard if it is still open for burials |
| Fees | Church fees are set nationally each year; your funeral director usually pays them as a disbursement |
What happens at a Church of England funeral
The service usually includes a welcome, hymns, Bible readings (Psalm 23 and John 14 are popular), a tribute or eulogy, a sermon, prayers, the commendation and the committal. Families have a lot of freedom to include music, poems and personal tributes, and the vicar will normally visit or call to plan the service with you.
If the service is in church, the committal can follow at the churchyard, a cemetery or a crematorium. Many families also choose a short service at the crematorium only, led by a minister.
Every family and community is different. Use this as a starting point, follow the wishes of the person who died, and ask their faith leader or community for guidance.
Finding a church for the funeral
If the person didn’t have a regular church, the funeral director can suggest one, or you can find a Church of England or Anglican church near you. Many ministers will lead a funeral for someone who lived in their parish or area, even if they rarely attended.
Etiquette for guests
What to wear
Traditionally dark clothing, though many families now ask for bright colours or a particular theme.
What to say
“I’m so sorry for your loss.” Sharing a memory of the person is always welcome.
Flowers and gifts
Flowers are welcome unless the family asks for donations instead.