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.

Cupar St John’s and Dairsie United Parish area  includes Cupar and Dairsie and extends out along the north side of the Bonnygate reaching into the countryside as far as Foodieash. The boundary to the east is the main road just beyond Dairsie and to the south includes a section of the Eden.

Just as for the Cupar St John’s and Dairsie United Parish 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.