On Wednesday afternoon Harmans Lawyers joined the Fellowship Group to talk about enduring powers of attorney and wills. The lawyers did say that those are valuable for people of any age and need to be regularly reviewed as circumstances change. And while powers of attorney might never actually be used, having a will makes it so much easier for those left behind, even for those who leave few assets. Being prepared also often saves a lot of money, because paying a lawyer to sort through affairs quickly gets expensive.

As the vicar I also know that being prepared for the funeral will make things easier for family and friends and ensure that your wishes are taken into consideration. It is often easier for the family if they have clear directions. When Allan Merrin died recently, the family expected to have the funeral at St Paul’s, but the funeral director assured them that it was easier to just have it at the funeral home chapel. And that’s why the funeral was held there. At such a stressful time many people choose what seems easiest. Of course, a funeral at church is not more complicated and normally not much more expensive. In fact, a memorial service after cremation at a church is cheaper than anything funeral directors could offer, if you are concerned about price.

I have prepared a simple pack for funeral instructions, with examples of some possible wishes. These list the most common issues to be decided, and allow for more arrangements. It would be good to have a copy of these instructions with the Church, with your papers, a trusted family member, and the funeral director, if you have already arranged one. I would suggest that when choosing a funeral director, you also consider some of the newer ones that work well with churches, for example Hope Funerals. I am happy to talk to anyone about funeral instructions.