Some years ago, at a discipleship fair in the Great Hall, a delightfully lovable curmudgeon named Joel Hillhouse approached me. He had recently retired and said he was looking for a volunteer job. Without missing a beat, I replied, “I have just the job for you. I need a new Head Funeral Usher.” Joel gave me a quizzical look and said, “That’s not what I had in mind.” But after thinking about it for a day or two, he said yes.
To his surprise, Joel soon discovered that this ministry, serving the church and grieving families, was a moving experience. During his first year as Head of the Funeral Ushers Committee, he sent me several emails expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve. He often shared how proud he was of the way IPC offers comfort to grieving families and hospitality to guests at memorial services.
What many may not realize is how many volunteers are involved on the day of a memorial service.
Three dedicated groups are among those who make everything possible:
- The Guild Funeral Committee, chaired by Barbara Stone and Jean Shanks
- The Guild Flower Committee, chaired by Cathy DeLozier
- The Funeral Ushers Committee, chaired by John Feagin
Beyond their practical duties lies a deeper calling: to bear witness to the resurrection of Jesus Christ through acts of compassion and service. From the quiet preparations long before the doors open to the final moments when the last guest departs, these men and women go about their work with grace and love.
Their ministry is not only a gift to families; it is also a tremendous blessing to the pastors. From my first days at IPC, I realized how these committees lift many logistical responsibilities from the clergy, freeing us to focus entirely on caring for families and preparing for worship.
Throughout my years of ministry, many members said to me at their time of loss, “I don’t know what to do.” My response was always confident and sincere: “Don’t worry. We will take care of everything and take care of your family.” And time after time, our volunteers have done just that, whether for an intimate service in the chapel with sixty guests or a large gathering in the sanctuary with six hundred.
If you would like to share in this meaningful ministry, I encourage you to contact Rev. Susan Clayton. She may have just the job for you— one that blesses others and, in time, may bless you even more deeply.
To learn more about memorial services at IPC, please visit our website here.
