Funerals

When someone you love has died, it can be a time of deep sadness and uncertainty. At St Mary’s Church, Sholing, we are here to support you with care, compassion and prayer.

Funerals at St Mary’s Church, Sholing

A Christian funeral gives space to give thanks for a life, to grieve honestly, and to entrust your loved one into God’s safe keeping. Every service is shaped around the person who has died - with music, hymns, readings and tributes that reflect their unique life and story.

Although there is no longer space in the churchyard at St Mary’s for full burials, ashes may be buried if you have an existing grave or if the person lived within the parish of Sholing.

Members of our ministry team are available to lead services in church, at crematoria, or at the graveside. We will guide you gently through the planning, working alongside your Funeral Director to ensure everything is arranged with dignity and care.

The Church of England also offers a helpful website to support families as they make decisions and prepare for the service.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • A Christian funeral is both honest about grief and full of hope. It includes prayers, readings from the Bible, and words that commend your loved one into God’s care. Each service is shaped around the person who has died, with music, hymns, and tributes that reflect their life and story.

  • No. You do not need to have been a regular churchgoer. We are here to serve anyone who lived in the Parish of Sholing.

  • Funeral services can be held in church, at a crematorium, at the graveside, or in a natural burial ground. A member of our ministry team can lead the service in any of these locations.

  • Yes. We will work with you to create a service that feels meaningful and appropriate. You can choose hymns, music, readings, and include a tribute or eulogy. We are here to guide you gently through these choices.

  • You can let your Funeral Director know that you would like St Mary’s involved, and they will contact us. Alternatively, you are very welcome to contact us directly by emailing office@sholing.church

  • Ashes may be buried in the churchyard if you have an existing grave or if the person who has died lived within the parish of Sholing, and space is available.

  • We are not able to reserve plots during life. However, if you would like your ashes to be buried at St Mary’s, you can express this wish in your will and make sure your next of kin are aware.