Memorials & Funerals at Los Altos United Methodist Church (LAUMC)
At LAUMC, we understand that the passing of a loved one is a deeply emotional and challenging time. Our community is here to walk with you in your grief, offering comfort, support, and a place to gather as we honor and celebrate the life of your loved one. Our caring team is ready to help you create a meaningful service that reflects your loved one’s legacy, offering space for remembrance, connection, and healing.
Caring for You During This Difficult Time
We are honored to offer our church as a place of solace where families and friends can come together in support and love. Whether you are a member of our congregation or someone in need of compassionate care, LAUMC is here for you in this critical time. Our pastors and Memorials Ministry team are ready to offer the pastoral support and care you need.
Requesting a Memorial or Funeral Service
When you are ready, you can begin the process by contacting our Congregational Care Ministry team, who will walk alongside you as you plan the details of the service. You can reach us by calling (650) 948-1083 or by emailing [email protected]. We understand that this is a tender moment, and our priority is to offer you the guidance and space you need to make decisions that feel right for you and your family.
Planning the Service with Compassion and Care
One of our LAUMC pastors will guide the service, offering prayers, scripture, and words of hope. Should you wish to include another pastor, or invite someone close to your family to co-officiate, we are more than happy to accommodate those requests.
We will work closely with you to design a service that is personal and meaningful. You may choose to include favorite readings, music, and reflections from family and friends. Our Memorials Coordinator will assist you in every step, from selecting music to preparing a program and ensuring that the service is a true reflection of the life we are remembering.
Creating a Space for Healing
A funeral service typically takes place soon after the passing of your loved one, often with the casket or urn present. Memorial services, on the other hand, allow for more time and are often held weeks or months later, creating a space for shared reflections and stories. Both services offer the opportunity to honor the person’s life, surrounded by those who loved them.
Services can be scheduled at a time that works best for your family, and we will do everything possible to accommodate your preferences. We know how important it is to create a service that feels like a true celebration of life, and we are here to help make that possible.
Order of Service
Every service is unique, shaped by the life and spirit of the person being honored. A typical memorial service may include:
• Musical Prelude
• Welcome and Prayer
• Remembrances and Reflections
• Visual Tributes (such as a slide show or video)
• Readings (Scripture, poetry, or other meaningful words)
• Music (soloists, instrumentalists, or congregational singing)
• A Brief Homily or Message
• Closing Prayer and Blessing
• Musical Postlude
We encourage family members and close friends to offer reflections, keeping each one brief but heartfelt. Our team will assist you in finding musicians, creating visual tributes, and preparing a printed program for the service.
Additional Services and Support
We offer livestreaming of the service for those unable to attend in person, ensuring everyone can participate in this moment of remembrance. You are also welcome to arrange for flowers or other tributes to be delivered to the church, creating a beautiful and peaceful setting for the service.
Receptions and Gatherings
If you wish to host a reception following the service, we offer several comfortable spaces on our campus. The Memorials Coordinator will work with you to arrange a simple reception with coffee, lemonade, and light refreshments, or to plan a gathering that best meets your needs.