An Introductory Note
At a person’s death, the church shares the grief of those who mourn and remembers the brevity of life on earth. At the funeral we give voice to sorrow, thank God for our loved one, and entrust this companion of ours into the hands of God. Trusting in God’s promise in baptism that we are claimed by Christ forever, we rest in the sure hope of the resurrection. When the church gathers to mark the end of life, Christ crucified and risen is the witness of worship, the strength of mutual consolation, and the hope of healing.
~Evangelical Lutheran Worship notes on Funeral Services

Planning the Service

Meeting with the Pastor: Whenever possible, families are encouraged to notify the pastor(s) immediately after the death of a congregation member. This can be done by contacting the church at 402-483-4126 or the pastor’s home number. It is helpful for the pastor(s) to join the family at the funeral home when making arrangements.

Scriptures: Scripture passages are an important part of the funeral service because the Bible reveals to us God’s love for us. Both the Old Testament and New Testament have appropriate passages. Often, passages are chosen based on their message of hope, renewal and promise. Sometimes, passages also reflect a quality found in the life of the deceased. Suggested passages found on the insert of this pamphlet.

Other Readings: There are also poems, readings, and texts beyond the Bible that also reflect God’s love and our hope in profound ways. While we strongly encourage at least one Scripture passage, other readings may also be appropriate. Discretion is left to the pastor(s).

Music: Music is a powerful and emotional way for people to express grief and hope, sorrow and joy. While soloists are appropriate and welcome, congregational hymns are also encouraged. We sing our faith together, believing for one another when faith is difficult to muster. Secular music is not appropriate within the content of the worship service but may be used before or after the service. Our Saviour’s provides an accompanist for services. Additional music groups through the congregation are generally not available. Any special requests can be discussed with the pastor(s). Suggested hymns found on the insert of this pamphlet.

Slideshows: Often, funeral directors will help families prepare slideshows of pictures of the deceased. These may be shown before the service as people find their seats or at the reception. They will not be shown during the service.

Communion: Celebrating the Lord’s Supper is another powerful way to remember God’s devotion and love for us and for the deceased. However, communion may not always be appropriate for every occasion. Families are urged to consider whether those worshiping would feel excluded from the table based on their own religious backgrounds, and if so, communion may be discouraged for the sake of the whole group gathered.

Obituary: The obituary is typically read prior to the sermon. While families might keep newspaper obituaries brief due to costs, they can expand upon it for the service.

Message: The main focus of a funeral service is to proclaim the hope and comfort we have in Christ. The sermon will also honor the life of the deceased. Personal stories are helpful in this regard.

Family Involvement: There is opportunity for one family member to share thoughts on behalf of the whole family. If the family chooses this option, they are encouraged to read from a manuscript and e-mail a copy to the pastor prior to the service.

Honoraria: Honoraria from congregational members for the pastor(s) and/or musician(s) are at the discretion of the family and are often included in the costs collected by the funeral director. Any honoraria received by the pastor(s) are placed in a common fund to benefit all of the staff at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church.

Military Funerals: We highly respect those who have served the country in this way, however we remember that we are Christians before we are Americans. Therefore, a pall is placed over the coffin during the worship service as a reminder of God’s grace which covers every one of us. A flag ceremony can take place at the gravesite. Funeral directors arrange for the appropriate military personnel.

Lunches/Receptions: Our Saviour’s has members who volunteer to provide and serve luncheons or dessert receptions. When a lunch is provided, the family is requested (if able) to help cover the costs of the sandwich items. All other food items are donated. The family can also choose to cater a meal or refreshments at their own expense.

Non-members: When appropriate, funeral services for non-members will be considered at the discretion of the pastor(s).