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Funerals at St Nicholas Church

The church is available for funeral and memorial services. Whether the person who has died was a member of the church or not, we  are here to support you in planning a Christian funeral with care and compassion.

A service in church allows people as much space as they need to give thanks for a life, without the time pressures often experienced in crematoria or funeral homes. It offers a setting of dignity, reflection, and hope.

While some may consider a direct cremation, we gently encourage you to think about the value of a funeral service. Taking time to say goodbye is an important part of grieving. A funeral gives space to remember, to honour a life, and to support one another. It is a significant and meaningful moment that can bring comfort in the days and years ahead.

It is also important to say that funerals do not need to be expensive or elaborate. They can be simple, personal, and deeply meaningful. If you are genuinely concerned about costs, please do get in touch, we would be very glad to talk with you and explore how we can help.

There will also be music and hymn choices to consider, along with the option of an organist and choir. We have facilities to show video tributes on screen, and services can be live streamed for those unable to attend in person. People sometimes assume there are strict limitations on what music can be included, but at St Nicholas we do everything we can to honour the wishes of those who have died and their families. We also have an excellent sound system, making it possible to include meaningful secular music as part of the service. We are here to help you in any way we can.

When the committal is cremation, it is entirely possible to hold the whole service in church, including the committal. This allows family and friends to remain together throughout, before moving on to the wake if desired. The cremation itself then takes place at your chosen crematorium, and the ashes are returned to you in due course.

There are several options to consider, and we encourage you to think carefully and talk through your wishes with family and those supporting you in these important final acts of love.

Please do contact Rev’d Rachel to discuss the most appropriate service for your loved one. We work closely with all local funeral directors, who will guide you through the practical arrangements and liaise with us on your behalf..

If you would prefer, St Nicholas clergy can also lead the entire service at a crematorium or cemetery. We have a strong and well-established relationship with all local crematoria, helping to ensure the service is carried out smoothly and with dignity.

Burial of Ashes (Cremated Remains)

The ashes of deceased parishioners may be interred in the St Nicholas Memorial Garden. It is a beautiful and peaceful space, especially set apart for the burial of ashes; it is lovingly maintained and cared for.​

The Application Form and Memorial Garden Regulations

​​Please note: There must be a connection to the Parish of St Nicholas, Chislehurst to enable us to inter the ashes of your loved one, and only the names of those interred into the Garden of Remembrance can be added to the Memorial Wall. Please contact the Rector for more details.

Contact us:

Rector 

The Rev'd Rachel Curley

020 4618 4195 or 07814 750500             

  

Church Office and Hall Bookings

Monday-Friday 09:00-13:00 ONLY

   020 8467 0196             

St Nicholas Church, Church Lane, Chislehurst, BR7 5PE
Parish Office, Village Hall, Church Lane, Chislehurst, BR7 5PE

Registered Charity No: 1131855

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