St Matthew's Church, Darley Abbey

It is a sad and difficult time when a loved one dies. Both the Vicar and any Funeral Director will do their utmost to sympathetically help you arrange a funeral .

What do I do?

If you live in St Matthew’s parish, or have connections with church, there are two ways a service can be arranged – either through the Funeral Director who will contact the Vicar on your behalf or you can contact the Vicar direct and she will discuss the next steps with yourself and the Funeral director.

You do not need to be a church-goer to have a funeral in church or to have the Vicar take the funeral

If you live outside the parish the Funeral Director will help you find your nearest local church.

Do we need a death certificate before contacting the Vicar or the Undertaker?

No.

What kind of service is possible?

The questions to ask first is whether you wish to arrange a burial or a cremation.

There are three possible types of service

1. A church service then a burial in the churchyard

2. A church service then a cremation . Ashes may be buried later in the churchyard if wished.

3. A service at the crematorium.

How do I know what to put into the service and what happens on the day?

Just contact the Vicar who will talk you through all the choices and possibilities and discuss your wishes.

I have a query about the churchyard or a memorial in it

In the first instance please contact John Bishop on 01332 557793

Memorials may not be placed in the churchyard without prior permission from the Vicar.

People who live in Darley Abbey Village may register an interest in being buried in the churchyard at a future date although particular plots cannot be reserved

A PRAYER

Almighty God we rejoice to know that your reign extends far beyond the limits of this life. In the mystery of what lies beyond our sight, we pray that your love may complete its work in those whose days on earth are done; and grant that we who serve you in this world may at last share with them the glories of your heavenly kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord Amen