Wiota Lutheran Church

Funerals

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When a loved one dies, a wide range of emotions are typically felt by family, friends, and the larger community. A Christian funeral attempts to embrace and lift up all these emotions, focusing on our connection to Jesus' baptism, death, and resurrection. As we celebrate the life and witness of the deceased, it is a time filled with remembering. Among the things we remember:

 

When we were baptized in Christ Jesus, we were baptized into his death. We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, so that as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live a new life. For if we have been united with him in a death like his, we shall certainly be united with him in a resurrection like his."

(Evangelical Lutheran Worship hymnal, funeral liturgy)

 

Some people choose to have a funeral plan in place before death occurs. This process often includes speaking through arrangements with lawyers, undertakers, as well as a pastor. Despite whether the death was anticipated or completely unexpected, the pastor is available to help walk you through the process of planning the funeral service. People and their families are involved to different degrees when planning the service. Some people know exactly what scripture readings, hymns, and other rituals they want to incorporate into the service, while other people prefer to leave it in the hands of the pastor.

 

Because of the strong baptismal connection and Christ's promises of resurrection, most funerals for a member of our community are typically held at the church. Sharing Holy Communion within the context of a funeral liturgy, is also a common practice. The bread and wine of communion are tangible signs of Christ's presence among us, bearing witness to the promise of the resurrected life. The church office typically prints funeral bulletins free of cost for most funerals. The church is also happy to host funeral receptions in our fellowship hall following the service.

 

When a death occurs, please notify our pastor as soon as possible and he/she will help guide you through the funeral planning process. 

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