Dealing With Grief

It is hard to say goodbye to those we love. We recognize the pain and grief from the loss of a loved one. We would be honoured to share with you this time of “walking in the valley of the shadow.” We believe that we are not alone but surrounded by God’s love and care. We strive to be present with you during this time to offer compassion, understanding, and assistance. 

The ministers of our church can be contacted at any time to provide comfort and support when a loved one is dying, or when funeral arrangements are being made. If required, we provide follow-up support to you as you deal with grief and loss. 

Planning The Service

Our services are called ‘Celebrations of Life’ as we focus on remembering your loved one. This can happen with the body in a casket, with ashes in an urn, or later without the physical presence of the deceased. 

With our livestream option, people who are unable to attend the service in person can be part of the service while it’s happening, or later at their convenience.  

During a consultation meeting prior to the service, McDougall’s minister will help you prepare a service that will lovingly reflect the life of your deceased relative or friend. The minister will shape the service according to the wishes and needs of the family and their loved one. Our ministers preside as religious leaders and will craft a service that is sacred while respecting the beliefs of the family. 

Memorial Donations

Memorials are a meaningful  way  to honour the values by which a person lived. A memorial donation to McDougall United Church is a way to celebrate and remember the importance of the church in the life of your loved one.  Contact the church office for more information on the variety of  ways you, your family and friends can make memorial donations to the future work of the McDougall community of faith. McDougall is a registered charity. 

Receptions

You are welcome to use our kitchen and hospitality hall for your reception after the service. Food must be provided by a licensed caterer, grocer, or other professional food service. Our funeral coordinator can give you suggestions when planning the service.

Memorial Garden

This sacred and holy place on church grounds is made for quiet reflection and the burial of a loved one’s ashes. This peaceful garden welcomes everyone, regardless of their faith and whether they are a member of the McDougall community of faith or not. The names of all those whose ashes are interred in the garden are recorded on a plaque inside the church.

Fees

Celebration of Life Service 

Basic Fee (June 2023)..........................$825

Includes the minister, the sanctuary, funeral coordinator as well as basic technical, and custodial costs.                                                

Fees for optional services:

Service Musician (pianist)..................$200

Includes pre-service rehearsal with soloist(s).

Service Musician (vocalist)……………… $150

Additional rehearsal time with Service 

Musician (for soloists)........................$80/h                      

Service Recording /Livestreaming....$150

Additional Tech Person …………………….$75/h

Additional Administrative Services..$20/hr

For example creating and printing detailed obituaries/orders of service on premium paper that goes beyond the scope of our general order of service and is dependent on volume, and creating memorial presentations to be played on the screens during the service.

Use of Hospitality Hall for Reception…………$140

Interment Service..............................$100