Funerals and Memorial Services during Social Distancing

Following guidance from the Government and the Church of England, we are having to close and lock our church buildings during this period of social distancing to help stem the spread of Covid-19.

As part of these measures, funeral services are only to be attended by the close family of the deceased i.e. spouse/partner, children and parents. It is hoped that as buildings reopen we will be able to hold memorial services for friends and family to attend to celebrate the life of the deceased.

As a benefice we are looking to support families through this already difficult time. But what can you do if you would like to pay your respects but can’t physically be there?

If you are unable to attend the funeral you can send your tributes and memories of the deceased to parishofficerwv@gmail.com to be given to the family at the funeral. On the day of the service, you could light a candle for the deceased, sit quietly and remember them. Cards, letters and emails, particularly in the days and weeks after the service, can are of great comfort to the recently bereaved and can offer a chance to remember the good times. Make use of social media apps like Facetime, Zoom, Skype etc to speak “face-to-face”.

Rev’d Helen has worked closely with Nelson’s Journey, a charity in Norfolk which helps bereaved children. They have produced these two brilliant resources to explain to children why funerals are different at this time and also help with any anxiety they may have around Coronavirus: