Funerals
Ministers in the Church of Scotland are called to serve a “Parish”. This means taking on responsibilities for those in a geographical area, beyond the needs of the congregation. So wherever someone lives in Scotland, whether a church member or not, they can call upon the free services of the “parish” minister to offer help in time of need. This is not seen as charity but as a very real sign of the care which makes the “Church” different from the rest of the world.
St John’s Parish area is in Cupar and extends out along the north side of the Bonnygate reaching into the countryside as far as Foodieash (which shares a boundary with Dairsie). Just as for St John’s Church members (wherever they live), the minister will conduct the funeral services of those who live in the Parish, when so requested by their families. There is no minister’s fee for this service, though a small charge may be made if the church building, or another church official (eg organist) is required. Occasionally families wish to make a donation, but there is certainly no such requirement. (Undertakers across Scotland know who the parish ministers are for their local areas, and should be able to advise in this matter.) Once contact has been made, the minister will usually wish to visit the family, if possible, before and after the service. |