Funeral Planning Guide
Funeral Planning Guide
“There is a time for everything, and a
season for every activity under heaven...”
Ecclesiastes 3:1 NIV
Peace be upon you,
Rev. Dr. Anthony Hood
Lead Pastor
Rev. Monica William
Pastor of Congregational Care
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Do I Call To Make Funeral Or Memorial Service Arrangements?
When death has occurred, please call the church office, and speak with the Church Administrator, Linda McDoniel, as soon as possible. Linda will contact our pastors, who will connect with you and begin the process for scheduling and planning the funeral or memorial service.
Our pastors will spend time with you and your family discussing the life and legacy of your loved one. They will help you select appropriate scripture readings, hymns, special music, an order of worship, and those you would like included in the service.
Who Can Have Their Funeral Or Memorial Service At Nardin Park?
We are a community of faith, here to serve the needs of our membership and our community. Members and their immediate families have priority when scheduling funeral/memorial services. However, the community at large are welcome to hold their funeral/memorial services at Nardin Park. Please note, Nardin Park United Methodist Church is an alcohol and tobacco free facility. Smoking and the consumption of alcohol within the facilities, and on the premises, is strictly prohibited.
Will Nardin Park Pastors Officiate Funeral Or Memorial Services At A Funeral Home?
Yes, Nardin Park Pastors will officiate the services for members of Nardin Park, whether they are at the church or at a funeral home. Our pastors will work closely with you and the funeral directors to provide the best ministry possible for your family.
Can Someone Other Than A Nardin Park Pastor Officiate The Service Or Give The Eulogy?
Our pastors, as shepherds and leaders of Nardin Park United Methodist Church, are primarily responsible for officiating and providing the eulogy for all funeral or memorial services. However, special consideration can be given, on a case-by-case basis. Please discuss deviation with the pastor presiding over your service. Outside clergy can also be included in the funeral service by offering prayer, a musical selection, or reading scripture.
Are there fees for holding funeral or memorial services at Nardin Park?
Use of the Sanctuary, Chapel, Mercer Hall, and Pastoral Services are free for members of the congregation. However, gifts are accepted. Non-members will be assessed fees for the use of facilities, pastoral services, musician services, and AV technician services. See the Fee and Cost Table for a list of fees.
Are Memorial Contributions Accepted?
Yes, memorial gifts and contributions to the church are gratefully accepted. Memorial envelopes are available for your use at any time. Your loved one, may have other agencies and organizations they would like supported, with gifts in their memory. It is best to inform the funeral director of the agency and organization you would like supported by memorial gifts.
Does Nardin Park Have A Memorial Garden?
Yes. The Nardin Park Memorial Garden is available for the internment of ashes. The Memorial Garden Courtyard was created to offer a tranquil lasting resting place for the interment of Cremains for church members.
The $400 fee for internment helps provide for the continuing care and upkeep of the garden. A plaque is placed on the adjacent hallway, recording the names of all those interned. A copy of this list is kept in the church office.
Will The Church Provide A Musician?
Our Director of Music is primarily responsible for providing music for funeral/memorial service. In the event, they are unavailable, they will secure the services of a replacement musician. Please note, the family is responsible for paying the musician’s fee (see schedule) directly to the musician.
Can We Have A Luncheon For Our Family And Friends? Is There A Fee?
Yes, you can have a luncheon at the church in Mercer Hall. Please contact our Bereavement Committee Chairperson, Judy Blaney, to discuss menu, fees, and set-up.
You may also choose to have an outside caterer to provide the food for your luncheon. Caterers must be licensed, bonded and insured (with valid documentation). Caterers will take full legal liability for all food prepared and served during the luncheon.
Does Nardin Park Offer Grief Counseling?
Yes. Following the funeral/memorial service, our pastors remain available to your family for comfort and counsel. Additionally, they can recommend the trained, supportive care of a Stephen’s Minister or Samaritan Counseling Center therapist.
