End of Life & Farewells
As people of faith, we are often a bit shy when it comes to talking about death, but it's important that everyone has the opportunity to discuss what they would like, in terms of ministry, family presence, or just little comforts, at the end of their lives. Whilst situations don't always work out, it can be helpful for loved ones to know what you would like so that they can support you as best they can.
We can't plan our deaths, but we can prepare our hearts and souls for the stepping stone that comes between this life and eternal life. This might look like a conversation with the vicar, with a local Funeral Service, or with loved ones. Here are some options below as to what you might consider asking for towards the end of life, or in a situation when you are unwell and would like ministry. These acts of worship can happen in your home, a nursing home or in hospital, but they all require a certain degree of privacy.
To read more about end of life preparations, or what you might ask for if you are taken unwell, keep reading. For funerals and memorial services, click the button below.
Ministry near the End of Life
Holy Communion at Home
Everyone who has been baptised is welcome at the Lord's table, and sometimes that table needs to come to you!
In home communion, a service for anyone who is housebound or temporarily unwell, a Eucharistic minister brings bread that has been consecrated on the previous Sunday in church, and shares part of the communion service with you, including the readings and a time of prayer. This often takes place within a longer pastoral visit, with space for a cup of tea and a general catch up and exchange of news.
Prayers & Anointing
This is an act of worship in which you are reminded of the very start of your Christian journey, baptism! You might receive an anointing with prayers for healing either near the end of life, or at a time when you are unwell. The prayers are for healing, in mind, body and soul, and so this act is no longer known as the 'last rites', and is actually a ministry that might be received numerous times during a person's life. Some churches have healing services, where everyone receives anointing for healing, in our churches we offer this moment as a private service at home.
Reconciliation (confession)
A chance to speak privately and in absolute confidence with the vicar, or another priest, about any regrets, offences or issues that you wish to raise before God for reconciliation. This is a sacred and sealed conversation, which requires time and space for you to speak freely and without interruption by loved ones, friends or carers. At the end of this time, you are given the opportunity to work through any particularly difficult troubles in prayer or in conversation, and are assured of God's forgiveness. The priest may first suggest some simple steps to heal and reconcile in the light of your conversation. Confession and Reconciliation are often followed by Communion and/or Anointing.
Ministry at the end of life doesn't have to look as formal as the options above. If you or a loved one are facing the end of life, and you don't want to be alone, call us, and we will do our best to provide company and support you.