Christian Burial and Advanced Care Planning at St. John's Lafayette

The Christian faith calls us to witness, even in death, the new life that God gives in Christ through his death and resurrection. 

Our Memorial Service Planner is intended to help you and your family prepare in advance. It will enable your family and the parish clergy to understand your wishes and preferences. The clergy will help plan the service and will stand ready to assist in any way. 

Christian burial is marked by three characteristics.  First and foremost, it is an act of worship wherein we glorify God for the gift of eternal life in Jesus Christ, our Lord. Second, it is a time when members of the Body of Christ gather to comfort one another and to offer mutual assurance of God’s abiding love.  Third, it is a liturgy of celebration whereby we give thanks for a deceased loved one and commend that person to the care of Almighty God.

The earliest records of Christian burial tell us that the following elements were included:

• Prayer in the home before the burial

• A gathering of the community for a burial service, consisting of thanksgivings, psalms, hymns, readings from Scripture, and prayers for the departed and those who mourn

• Celebration of the Holy Eucharist

• A procession of lights and torches to the place of burial

• The interment of the remains

As part of preparation for Christian burial, it is suggested that you talk with your clergy. It is also of great benefit to read about the service in the Book of Common Prayer (468–507). The rubrics on these pages are of particular interest. It is also recommended that people familiarize themselves with prayers for “Ministration at the Time of Death” (the Book of Common Prayer 462–467).

-Adapted from “Faithful stewards of your good gifts.”  Episcopal Church Foundation.

Download a copy of the St. John's Memorial Planner.

For more information, please contact St. John's Episcopal Church by EMAIL or at 765.742.4079.