When someone you love dies, the church is here for you. Our pastor is glad to help families plan and lead a funeral or memorial service, whether or not you are a member of First Presbyterian. Please call the church office at (513) 771-6195 at any time.

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A service of witness to the resurrection

The chief purpose of a Christian funeral is to proclaim the hope of eternal life through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. A Presbyterian funeral gives thanks for the life of the one who has died, comforts those who mourn, and bears witness to the resurrection.

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The Book of Order, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s guide to worship and church life, explains:

 

"In Baptism each Christian shares in Christ's dying and rising, and receives the promise of eternal and abundant life in him. We understand the Christian funeral to be the completion of Baptism. In the face of death, we affirm with tears and joy the good news of the gospel and the hope of the resurrection. We do not grieve in isolation but are sustained by the power of the Holy Spirit and the community of faith."

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Book of Order (2025–2027), W-4.0701

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What to expect

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A service may be held in our sanctuary, at a funeral home, or at the graveside. A funeral is held with the body present. A memorial service is held with cremated remains or without the remains present. When a casket is present, it is closed before the service begins.

A service usually includes:

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• opening sentences of Scripture

• a prayer of thanksgiving

• a hymn or psalm

• one or more Scripture readings

• a sermon

• a prayer of commendation, entrusting the one who has died to God's care

• a benediction, or parting blessing
   

Family members or friends may also share memories as part of the service.

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The graveside committal

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After the funeral, family and friends may gather at the grave for a short committal service, where the body or remains are laid to rest. It usually includes a few verses of Scripture, words of committal, a closing prayer, and a benediction. Some families choose to hold only a graveside service, which follows a similar pattern and is usually brief.

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Planning ahead

Many members find it a comfort, both to themselves and to their families, to plan their own funeral in advance. Our funeral planning form can be filled out at any time and returned to the church office.

 

Download the Funeral Planning Form.

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For more details, see our: Funeral Guidelines.

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