Prompts for A Funeral Message

I have used these questions in talks with folks preparing funeral services for years. They are often helpful in bringing out memories that can be considered in preparing a sermon or eulogy.

I found these decades ago in a Ministry magazine, apologies to the original author. I included them here for my reference and other’s consideration and use.

1. What is one descriptive word you would use to describe him?
2. Did she have any particular loves or hobbies?
3. Did he enjoy any particular songs, poems, or Scriptures?
4. If you could name one value or lesson she wanted to teach the next generation, what would it be?
5. What is the one accomplishment that would make his face light up when you mentioned it?
6. What were some of her favorite phrases or sayings?
7. Did she ever put anything up on the wall — a picture, a motto, a clipping that expresses who she really was?
8. Did he like and use his first name? How did he introduce himself? What nicknames did he have?
9. Was there a cause or movement that she felt deeply about and supported with time and treasure? What was it?
10. If he could have me say one thing during the service, what do you think it would be?
11. Why is the world a little different because of her?
12. What will you miss most about him?

Prayer for Nepal

Thankful that my brother and his wife left 12 hours before the earthquake in Nepal but sad for all the brothers and sisters that were not spared.

A friend was looking for a prayer from the United Church of Canada. Here it is: 

A Prayer for Nepal

God of Creation,
We live in a world where both beauty and danger are found.
Hear our prayers for those who have been overcome by the disastrous earthquake in Nepal.
For all who are grieving the death of loved ones…
For all who are in need of healing…
For all who are troubled with confusion or pain… For all who are in pain… For all who cannot find adequate food or shelter… For all who have lost their homes, community centres and workplaces… And for all who are supporting relief efforts…
Gracious God, hear our prayers.

Strengthen with your presence all who are numb with fear and distress.
Guide those who anxiously search or wait for loved ones.
Be near those who are grieving, and bless them with your peace.

In the midst of disaster we give thanks for moments of generosity and human kindness…

Grant tenderness, strength, and wisdom
To the doctors and nurses, aid workers, and emergency responders; to all who minister to human need in our time of distress…

We gather these prayers by saying together the prayer that you taught us:

Our Creator… [Prayer of Jesus]

http://www.united-church.ca/files/planning/theme/emergency_prayer-nepal.rtf

Change

My previous pastorate rented space to an active, for profit day care. When I arrived relations were strained. I worked on joint community programs like an Easter Bunny Breakfast, a Nativity learning activity in our Christmas decorated sanctuary, weekly book reading by church members, and coffee and rolls during winter for parents dropping off children (that the staff enjoyed as well!). Throughout my time we increased cooperation, communication, the sharing of equipment and expanded building use benefiting both the congregation and the day care along with the community. The partnership has continued in the time since I left and expanded.

Response to the Presbyterian Church’s Personal Information Form (PIF) question: Describe a time when you have led change.

A scanned copy of my PIF (references available on request)

Growing to Serve

Working in retail service and as a volunteer instead of a director in a non-profit, I have learned how to say “Yes” and what I can do for folks instead of focusing on the needs of the institution or my own preferences.

My team leader emphasizes that our job is to make sure every customer has a good experience at the store and to see ourselves as a trusted friend, not a salesperson.

At the non-profit, ComputerCorps, I am learning how to work with others when I am not one with authority. My service there is giving me a new perspective on church life and work and a model of how to work with volunteers when not supported by church tradition and common beliefs.

Response to the Presbyterian Church’s Personal Information Form (PIF) question: What areas of growth have you identified in yourself?

A scanned copy of my PIF (references available on request)

Where God is Calling Me

I believe God is calling me to service. Sometimes that is in a church, sometimes behind a retail service counter, sometimes as a volunteer at non-profit. Rather than follow my passion, I seek to bring Christ’s passion wherever I can be of service, “taking, as he did, this sinful world as it is, not as I would have it”. My time away from church leadership has been used by God to develop my qualities as a trusted servant. As a Geek Squad agent I guide folks through living in our technology labyrinth. As a volunteer staff member at a non-profit, ComputerCorps, I help recycle struggling spirits of those performing community service, teens, the unemployed, the retired, mentally and emotionally challenged as we recycle computers.

Response to the Presbyterian Church’s Personal Information Form (PIF) question: Describe the ministry setting to which you believe God is calling you.

A scanned copy of my PIF (references available on request)