LOVE DEMANDS REMEMBRANCE
Important note: If you have just lost someone and are deep in the grieving process, call the pastor without worrying about the details below, 859-986-3725. When you are in the bitterest moments of pain and your broken heart is demanding all your attention, our love demands that we help in every way we can.
Funerals and Memorials
This is one of those times when the word “demands” feels most deeply true. When we have lost someone, our heart demands the grief, the remembering, even the denying, the bargaining with God, all of it. Our heart often seems to demand these things with screams and wails. It cannot be denied. We at Union Church want to walk with you through that dark valley. We want to carry the light for you when your steps are faltering and you feel you can’t carry it for yourself.
If you can, it is a good idea to plan ahead, whether for your own service or another’s. The most important factor in planning a memorial service or funeral is a conversation with the pastor. Every service is unique to that family, and together, you will determine music, flowers, what kind of a service you want, and whether you want it to be in Union Church’s main sanctuary, in Cowan Chapel, or outdoors. Here are a few details you might like to know in advance.
- You need not be a member here to honor your loved one here.
- There is no charge for the service, but donations are accepted and honoraria are customary for clergy and the organist, if you are able. Your donations help us to offer these services for others.
- There is a charge for technicians and equipment if you wish to stream or record the service.
- The Community Room, which has a full kitchen, can be available for receptions. Many families choose to use a catering service, or provide food or invite others to provide food. Our pastor will help you figure out the details.
Memorial Garden
Union Church does not have a graveyard; however, we maintain a beautiful, living memorial garden where cremated remains can be laid to rest. We can’t have anything that is not biodegradable, so ashes are sprinkled or buried without a container. The charge of $300 covers the cost of a permanent bronze plaque with your loved one’s name and dates and ongoing Garden maintenance. The garden, situated in the little courtyard between the main sanctuary and Cowan Chapel, is always open to whomever wants to come and sit. Community members who have had their funeral or memorial service elsewhere are also welcome to arrange for their loved one to be honored in this way.
