Funerals at St James’
The loss of a loved one is always a difficult time as we grieve and give thanks for the joy that that person has brought to our lives. As in baptism, we are made one in Christ, so too in death, we are joined with Christ in eternal life.
Several types of funeral services are available at St James’ or can be conducted by the parish priest at another location. These services follow the Anglican liturgy and are individualised in accordance with the deceased and/or family’s wishes.
You may wish to consider making arrangements for mortal remains following cremation to rest within one of the niches in the columbarium on the church site. For further information please contact the Parish Priest.
We provide a funeral customary for those who wish to prepare their funeral arrangements as an act of faith in God, and love for their families.
Can I pre-plan my funeral with St James’?
Yes, we regularly work with a range of Hunter Region funeral directors. The Priest will meet with the family and spend some time with them in shaping the service in ways that reflect something about the person and provide the opportunity for people to be involved in the service in ways that are appropriate.
What does a Christian funeral service include?
A Christian funeral service normally includes:
- Prayers
- Hymns and/or other music (this can include recorded music)
- One or more readings from the Bible
- One or more eulogies
- The service can take place within the Holy Eucharist
What kind of music can be played at a funeral?
At St James’ we welcome all styles of music. If you would like some hymns played during the service our organists are available to play for you on request.
What are the fees involved?
To be able to continue ministry here and because of the costs of upkeep of such a beautiful historic building.
The fee for a funeral is $750.
You also have the option of:
- Organist available on application
- Flowers (by arrangement)
These fees are paid as part of the package provided by your funeral director. We have experience working with a number of Hunter Valley and Newcastle funeral directors. You don’t need to organise to pay those fees directly to the church.
St James’ Columbarium
The historic Church of St James’ stands in the heart of Morpeth. Our church building is open every day of the year for prayer and reflection, as is our Columbarium.
The mortal remains of many of our friends and loved ones rest in the columbarium niches and memorial garden. We invite all members of our local community to consider our columbarium or garden as the final resting place for their cremated remains, where family members and descendants will be able to come and visit in this sacred space which we will continue to care for in perpetuity.
If you would like further details about organising a niche in the Columbarium, use the enquiry form or phone (02) 4933 6218. Cost of niche and plaque available on application.
PO Box 80