Yes and no. All pastors are capable of conducting a funeral or memorial, but not all pastors (or ministers or priests) are able to make the event a hope-filled and positive experience. The one way Pastor Randy stands out, over the majority of other pastors, is his unique style and ability to be offer hope to the hurting and inspiration to an event that is traditionally sad, depressing, and sometimes even miserable.One another aspect that often separates us from others is this: every service is different and unique because the services are about the loved-one. His or her life, accomplishments, and passions dictate the service from beginning to end. There is no canned “talk” – it all relates to your loved-one.

What is the difference between a funeral and a memorial? 

A funeral always involves the presence of the deceased. A memorial service is any service, which commemorates a life, but does not involve the presence the deceased.

What is a grave-side service? And is it necessary? 

A graveside service (aka a “direct burial” in the funeral industry) may be added on to a funeral or it may be act as the funeral itself. When added on to a funeral, vehicles often drive together to the burial destination (as you have seen on the road led by a team of traffic controllers on motorcycles). Sometimes families prefer only a graveside service, which acts both as the funeral service and graveside service. Graveside services are often more brief (approx 10 to 20 minutes in length) and is led my a member of the clergy.

How long is a typical celebration of life service? 

Typically a funeral or memorial last between 45 minutes and and hour. The length of the event is often determined by several things including number of special songs, special reading, number eulogies, and a time for “open mic” (which is a time for those present to make a comment about a memory with the loved-one).

Does it matter if we’re not affiliated with a church or a denomination?

No. This ministry is for any and all families in need of a positive and hope-filled pastor to conduct a service to honor a loved-one.

Cremation Vs Burial

We get this question all the time.  In fact, we hear it so often, I have provided a link to help families make the best decision for themselves.  Click HERE for more information.  We do not have strong feelings one way or another.  This is simply to help you.

Will our faith and traditions be honored? 

Yes. To the best of our ability we will include your family and faith traditions. All of these details will be worked out when we meet to discuss your desires for the service.

How do we begin planning the order of service? 

Gather as many family members together as you’re able and schedule a time and place for all of us to work and think together. There are many options and opportunities in creating the perfect memorial service. I will bring the ideas and you and your family together will decide what fits the best. The service is yours, not mine. So my job is to do and say what you need done and said.

This meeting typically lasts between 45 and 90 minutes. We can meet in your home, the mortuary, our church, or at a local coffee house.

Are you currently an actual pastor serving in a local church? 

Yes. I have been a full-time pastor since 1986. I have conducted well over a hundred memorials and/or funerals over that time period.

How much are your services? 

For families outside our local church, we ask for a gift of $200 to $300 (depending on location and other details, suggested gifts are quoted on individual basis). The reason we ask for this gift is because the time placed into planning and conducting of the service is time away from our families and our time off. We do not take time away from the church who is also our employer and deserves our full attention every work day