Funerals
The death of someone we love is a difficult time. We all need the support of our family, friends and those we trust. It is a time when we appreciate the care & prayers of others in the wider community. The church seeks to be part of that caring community.
The first port of call for funerals is the Vicar or Parish office. We can also help you with the practical aspects and help you find suitable Funeral Directors.
If your family member lived in the parish, or has some long standing link with Thames Ditton, then they can have a funeral service in the church, or have their ashes interred in the Garden of Remembrance. If you are uncertain, do contact the Parish Office for guidance.
Arranging a service
If you make the funeral arrangements directly with the funeral director, they will contact the Parish Office who will then get in touch with you to arrange a time to meet to plan the service.
What are the options?
Most people choose between a service in church (followed by burial or cremation) or at a crematorium (e.g. Randalls Park or Kingston). Having a service in church does not commit you to having your loved one buried in a churchyard (see below). It may be that the deceased has made a particular request in their will, so before you make a decision, please check with the executor of their estate. Other than that, it does come down to personal preference.
What does the service involve?
A service normally includes music, readings, prayers, a eulogy, a Bible reading, a short address and space for private reflection. The length of a service can vary, although it usually lasts between 40-50 minutes. We can help you plan the service. The Church of England have a helpful website: https://churchofenglandfunerals.org/organising-funeral/
The Churchyard & Garden of Remembrance
In the case of St Nicholas Church, Thames Ditton, the churchyard is now closed for new graves although a family grave can be reopened for a new burial if there is space. We have a Garden of Remembrance, opposite the main entrance to the church, where the cremated remains of those who lived in the parish may be interred.
It is possible to have a burial at Long Ditton Cemetery (which is the closest cemetery to Thames Ditton). Your Funeral Director will be able to help you organise this, and our clergy would be happy to preside at the burial.
How much does it cost?
The service fees vary depending on where it takes place and whether you choose a burial or a cremation. The local funeral director should be able to advise you on the fees, but if in doubt, please contact the Parish Office. There are standard fees (see below) set by the Church of England and Parochial Church Council for funerals. These are normally paid through the funeral director. The services of an organist can be arranged: additional fees are payable for this.
Reception / gathering
The church hall may be available for hire for funeral gatherings, although some rooms get heavily booked during the week. Please contact the Parish Secretary for this. We are not able to provide catering, but we can suggest some local catering businesses.
As a church family, we care for those who live in our community and pray for you as you go through this difficult time.
Many people find it helpful to come to church at such a time, in order to take some time out to remember and to think about the bigger picture.
You are most welcome to join us at any Sunday service.
Fees
Our fees are fixed by the Church of England.
You can find our more by clicking on this link below: