Funerals
Being 4 parish churches, we are here for everyone living in the parish, not just for the people who attend church.
In a time of bereavement the most natural place to turn to for consolation, strength and meaning is the church. In a time of loss we all need the help and love of caring people as well as advice around the more practical side of organising the funeral.
This page sets out arrangements for a service within the church, though if it is your wish the minister can explore other options with you, such as a service in the house, a simple graveside service, or a service in a crematorium, or a combination of these. The most common pattern is that we begin with a service in the church and then have a short service of committal and interment at the graveside. The practical arrangements need to be made in conjunction with the Funeral Director.
Contact
If you would like help to arrange a funeral service, contact the Minister, the Rev. Dr. Malcolm Kinnear on 01855 831 227.
The Church Service
A service in the Church may be expected to last about 20 to 30 minutes. We will be happy to explore what you would be comfortable with, including the choice of music, readings, hymns, and prayers. While there is flexibility in what you might choose to be included, any service in the church or led by the minister will be Christian in orientation.
Organ music or recorded music can be provided before and after the service.
Music
It is customary to have 2 or 3 hymns during the service, the choice being discussed with the minister. Organ music of recorded music can be provided before and after the service.
Projection Facilities are available in Nether Lochaber Church
The words of hymns and readings can be shown on a screen if desired. It is possible to display photos and tributes to the deceased on the screen prior to the service. If you wish a printed order of service the funeral director can help to provide this.
Flowers
You may, if you wish, decorate the Church with flowers. Access to the Church should be arranged with the Church Officer. After the funeral, you may wish to remove the flowers for your own use, or leave them in the Church of the following Sunday service. One local florist is -
McDonald Bros., 12-13 Battlefield Crescent, Inverlochy, Fort William, PH33 6NB. Tel. 01397 702221.
Registrar
The local registrar should be contacted before you arrange the funeral. Contact Births, Deaths and Marriages. Tel. 01397 705583
Funeral Directors
Manson & Macbeath, 10 Battlefield Crescent, Inverlochy, Fort William, PH33 6NB. Tel. 01397 701110. Mob. 07789 918954. www.mansonandmacbeath.co.uk
John MacLellan & Co. Ltd., Dudley Road, Fort Willia,, PH33 6JB. Tel. 01397 702128. (24 hours)
Greenlees & Son Family Funeral Directors, Kilmallie Road, Caol, Fort William, PH33 7AR. Telephone 01397 719600 (24 hours). www.greenleesfunerals.co.uk. scott@greenleesfunerals.co.uk
Pastoral Care
The Church community continues to be concerned for you in the time following your bereavement and is here with the minister to support you. Your experience of bereavement may raise questions for you in the weeks and months ahead and the minister is always available to offer pastoral care.
Sunday Services
Many people find that attending church is particularly meaningful in the weeks and months after the death of a loved one. The Sunday service is held at noon to which visitors are always welcome.
“I am the resurrection and life, says the Lord. Whoever believes in me will live, even though he dies.” John 11:25