Memorials

The Impact of COVID-19

Losing a loved one is never easy and the ongoing pandemic has only complicated matters.
Nonetheless, we here at First Met are committed to helping you work through this difficult time and create a meaningful service to commemorate your loved one. We have adapted our approach to funeral and memorial services to meet current public health restrictions, and using our new
methods can help you and your family celebrate the life of the deceased apart, but together.

Livestreaming

Current public health restrictions mean in-person attendance at your service will be limited to
protect the health and well-being of all. The service can be livestreamed to ensure all of your
friends and relatives are able to take part. Our sanctuary is equipped with state-of-the-art visual
and audio equipment to ensure your service is of the highest quality.

Click here for our Celebration of Life brochure and further information

Memorial services and funerals cannot generally be scheduled well in advance. The Ministers and some retired ministers in the congregation are usually available on short notice when needed.

While funeral services are generally held shortly after a person's death, memorial services may be held at the convenience of the family. It is critical, however, for the family to discuss the details with the Minister(s) before making other arrangements as there are guidelines to be followed in the United Church. We can help you minimize the stress at such a difficult time.

Before a loved one dies, we can provide counselling as well as forms and plans which you may complete and have ready long before the sad event.

A funeral or memorial service is most meaningful when it reflects the interests, values and beliefs of the deceased in music, readings and prayers chosen. You may choose to do this yourself or with the help of the ministerial staff. Not only will this spare your survivors some grief, it will ensure that your own wishes are known and respected.

Services may be held in the Sanctuary, Chapel or sometimes in another location. A reception or memorial tea following the service may be held in the Doreene McLeod Room, the Social Room or in the Fellowship Hall. 

Please contact the church office to make these arrangements.