Funerals 

The Arle Valley Benefice is the Church of England in Your Community and we are here to support you every step of the way. 

A Church of England funeral is available to everyone, giving support before, during and after the service. We hope this page will be a helpful guide to answer some of your questions. 

The Church of England 'Funerals' website has a lot of information explaining the help available, a service walkthrough, and guidance on how to arrange a funeral. It also answers questions you may have if attending a funeral, as well as a section on 'my funeral plans'.

Can we have a Church of England funeral?

A Christian funeral is available to all people whether they are regular worshippers in their local church or not.

Some people find planning the funeral with family and friends helps in their grieving. Perhaps you already know something of what your loved one wanted.  You may even have planned the service together some time ago.  If you are uncertain, the minister who will lead the service can help you choose suitable readings, hymns and prayers.

Some deaths will be especially traumatic, distressing or unexpected. The Church has special funerals for children, or after sudden or violent deaths, including suicide. We would be happy to talk with you about what is possible.

If you want to organise a funeral or burial of ashes, it is generally easiest to make contact through a funeral director, who will co-ordinate diaries and make the necessary practical arrangements.  

For more information, please telephone the Benefice Administrator on 01962 733545 or email arlevalleychurches@gmail.com.
Office hours Monday to Friday 10:00am to 12:00pm.

The Church of England 'Funerals' website has a lot of information explaining the help available, a service walkthrough, and guidance on how to arrange a funeral. It also answers questions you may have if attending a funeral, as well as a section on 'my funeral plans'.

Lighting a Candle: a little light goes a long way
Lighting a candle can be a helpful way to pray for someone. You can do this in a church, or light a virtual candle online on the Church of England's 'Funerals' - light a candle' page.

Bereavement Support

There is no right way to grieve, no set pathway to follow...

Every loss is unique and feelings, intense or fleeting, are many and varied.  They may include shock, sadness, physical pain, loneliness and sometimes anger, relief or guilt.

There may be times when you would just like to talk to someone in confidence and the bereavement team of St John's Church in Alresford are just a phone call away.

You can call and leave a message any time at the Benefice Office (01962 733545) and one of our team will call you back.

God of love,
Surround all those I love
Especially those I can no longer see.
Be a light in my darkness,
Hope in my fear,
Love in every moment
And give me grace to face each day ahead.
Amen