As far back into history as we can penetrate,
human beings seem to have felt the need for a ceremonial
leave-taking of those who have died.
The funeral service of the Church of England
can be very short and quiet with only a few members of the
family present or an occasion of great solemnity with music,
hymns and a packed church.
Whether in a parish church or a crematorium
chapel, it can be the plain funeral service from the Prayer
Book or the Alternative Service Book or with the addition
of hymns, favourite prayers and readings, an address. It
can very appropriately be set into the context of a Communion
Service.
Whatever the pattern of service, the words
and actions all speak of a loving God and the preciousness
to Him of every human being.
