The pastors, in consultation with the Director of Music, are responsible for planning the service itself and will consult with you regarding hymns, other appropriate music, and favorite Scripture passages that would be especially meaningful to you. The music selected for the memorial service should reflect the same standards applied to music chosen for Sunday morning worship. Pre-recorded music will not be included in services at RPC. 

The Service
The service is called "A Service of Witness to the Resurrection" as we first focus upon our common faith, God's Living Word, the Good News of the resurrection. As a part of this service, we invite family members and trusted friends to share their memories. As many as three people may stand to speak during the service, with the recommendation of using prepared remarks. With consideration to our guests and volunteers, these services typically keep to one hour or less. While others may wish to share their memories and condolences, we suggest that these be offered after the service, either during the reception in the narthex or at a location named by the family. 

The service will not eulogize, but instead will celebrate the gift of the life of the deceased that will bear witness to our common faith, and that will meet the needs of the mourners. It is for this reason that we believe it is appropriate not to have more than two/three outside speakers. 

Bulletins
Bulletins will be prepared by the church staff after the pastor and family have planned the service.

Elders
A select group of elders will assist the family, staff, and ministers on the day of the funeral or memorial service. They will act as ushers for the service - reserve pews, pass out bulletins, and answer any questions you or your guests might have. These volunteers are there to officially represent the church at the service.  

Order of Worship
Prelude Music 
Sentences of Scripture/
Call to Worship 

Welcome and Prayer 
Old Testament Readings 
First: 
Second: 
Musical Reflection
New Testament Readings

First: 
Second:

Homily 
Prayer of Intercession
The Lord’s Prayer 
Hymn 
(The Apostles’ Creed)
Family Remembrances 
Prayer of Thanksgiving 
Commendation 
Hymn
Blessing 
Postlude 

Suggested Scriptures
Old Testament 
Ecclesiastes 3:1-15
Isaiah 40:1-8
Isaiah 40:28-31
Psalm 23:1-6
Psalm 46:1-11
Psalm 121:1-8 

Suggested Music
1 Holy, Holy, Holy! Lord God Almighty!
39 Great Is Thy Faithfulness
65 Guide Me, O Thou Great Jehovah
215 What Wondrous Love Is This
238 Thine Is the Glory
275 A Mighty Fortress is Our God
307 God of Grace and God of Glory
326 For All the Saints
366 Love Divine, All Loves Excelling
450 Be Thou My Vision
611 Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee
625 How Great Thou Art
643 Now Thank We All Our God
649 Amazing Grace
687 Our God, Our Help in Ages Past
802 The King of Love My Shepherd Is
834 Precious Lord Take My Hand
836 Abide With Me 

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