BEREAVEMENT

Grieving family members are often confronted with  many decisions about what to do when a loved one dies. “Who do I call for help? Which funeral provider should I use? What arrangements need to be made?” The following information and suggestions are provided to help simplify the decision making process.

An important role of the church is to be a comfort to those who mourn (Isaiah 61:2). We want to stand with you in your time of grief. If tragedy strikes, please let us know. Call the Church Office at 951-699-9207 and ask to speak to a pastor. If the Church Office is closed, please leave a message, including a call back number, and a pastor will return your call.

Nearly every situation is different and not every family wants the same type of funeral or memorial service. Do you want a traditional funeral? What about cremation? The choice a family makes is often based on costs, personal convictions or previously discussed preferences. These factors will often determine whether the funeral or memorial will be simple or elaborate, public or private, and where it will be held.

When we lose someone dear to us, eternity becomes very real. With this in mind, the correct view of eternity becomes essential. The Bible comforts those left behind by placing within them a true and living hope (1 Peter 1:3). A funeral provides an opportunity to share this hope. Therefore, a funeral service should be a celebratory worship service. The music and message should bring glory to God as you seek to honor your loved one.

Most funeral homes have chapels that provide adequate space and a peaceful atmosphere for funeral services. Calvary Chapel Bible Fellowship also offers its facilities to members pending availability.

Funerals rank among the most expensive purchases a family will make. Cost for a traditional funeral service is currently about $6,000. An elaborate service can be considerably higher. Though many establishments provide funeral packages including the primary goods and services needed. A good funeral provider will help you choose only the goods and services you want or need, thereby assuring you pay only for what you personally select.

All military veterans are entitled to a free burial and grave marker in a national cemetery. For more information, visit the website of the Department of Veteran Affairs at www.cem.va.gov. To reach a Veterans Office call (800) 827-1000. Riverside National Cemetery is 35 miles from CCBF and is located at 22495 VanBuren Boulevard, Riverside, CA 94129 (951) 653-8417.

Planning ahead can help you make informed and thoughtful decisions about funeral arrangements sparing your family the stress of making decisions under the pressure of time and strong emotions. Preplanning also allows you to choose the specific items you want and need as well as comparing prices and services offered by several funeral providers.