Funerals and the Churchyard
Funerals:
Church funerals are more usually held at St Mary's which seats up to 100 people and for those recently living within the parish, lends itself naturally to a burial in the churchyard. St Mary's is a beautiful church which offers an intimate setting for a small gathering. Alternatively, Emmanuel can seat 200 people.
The Churchyard:
The churchyard at St Mary's is open. This means that anyone who lived in the parish or is on the electoral role or has an existing family grave can ask to be buried here. The Rector and Church Office will advise about the Diocesan Regulations which govern a churchyard, however, all such decisions are usually made by the Rector in accordance with the local situation at Hawkwell and the Diocesan Churchyard Regulations. What is/is not allowed in a C of E churchyard is distinctive, and different from Borough Cemeteries. It is important that this is understood as it does sometimes cause heartache to us and the relatives, that many items cannot be placed on a grave.
Memorial Book:
The names of people who are buried or interred in the churchyard or the Ashes Plot can be recorded in our Memorial Book.
After the Funeral:
The whole church team understands the importance and opportunity of individuals and families, who have been bereaved, to receive God's comfort and care. We make people particularly welcome at church on Sunday mornings and can offer God's love and support at this and other times, such as the Coffee Morning held on 3rd. Tuesday of the month. (click here for details) On most Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays the church is open during office hours, 10am -3pm when anyone is welcome to come into the church to sit quietly, light a candle or pray. There are people available to talk or pray with you if required.
Stepping Stones, held on the first Tuesday of each month 12 noon-2pm at St Mary's, is there to offer free informal support and advice to anyone needing help following a bereavement.