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Gathered to God

As Christians we believe that those who die are gathered to God and ushered into new life through Christ. The burial rites of the Church provide an opportunity for friends and family to acknowledge faith and hope in the midst of loss, and to commend those we love to God’s never-failing care.

The clergy are available for three kinds of services. A funeral takes place within days following death, with a closed casket or urn present. A memorial service, in which remains are not present, may take place at any time suitable for the bereaved. A committal service takes place at a cemetery or columbarium, and may follow a funeral or take place separately.

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”

– John 3:16

Please contact the clergy at or near the time of death so that the priest-on-call may come to the home or hospital to visit and pray with those who are bereaved. If death is not sudden or unexpected, we hope the family will have been in touch with the clergy prior to death. It is also possible—and encouraged—to make plans for one’s own burial, and to leave those plans on file with the Church.

Contact Rosa Gentile

Funeral Resources

View or download Burial Service and Internment: Personal Planner (PDF)

View or download the burial service from the Book of Common Prayer (PDF)
The Burial Service with Scripture Readings — Rite I

View or download the burial service from the Book of Common Prayer (PDF)
The Burial Service with Scripture Readings — Rite II

To schedule a funeral, contact Rosa Gentile

The St. James' Columbarium

The St. James’ Columbarium is a sacred and beautiful repository for mortal remains in the peace and permanence of St. James’ Church. Locations may be chosen from three levels comprising 4,000 niches protected by white Italian marble. Tiffany windows provide a wash of warm color over the naturally lighted space. Family members and friends may enter directly from Madison Avenue for prayer and meditation during the hours St. James’ is open; no appointment is necessary.

Contact the Administrative Assistant to the Rector for More Info