It is perhaps a common misconception that preaching funerals is the worst part of a pastor’s job.  By contrast, I have found the process of walking with a family through the shadow of death and then leading a service to celebrate that person’s life one of the most meaningful aspects of my calling.

Call to Worship – Psalm 71
By the end of today’s service, I think you’ll understand why Tom Weikel asked that we include Psalm 71 in his memorial service, as well as why I chose to read all 24 verses.
 
In you, O LORD, I have taken refuge;
   let me never be put to shame.

October 31, 2011
Peace United Church of Christ – Greensboro, NC
Humbled and honored
It’s rather humbling to stand in this pulpit where my friend Mel preached.  He served as pastor at Peace Church for more than thirty years.  I am grateful to Jim Luck for welcoming me here today and also for his pastoral care for Mel [...]

You’ve already heard from Mark Marshall with some personal remembrances of Joe from the family’s perspective.  I have the privilege of sharing my thoughts as his pastor – not only my own remembrances but those of his church family for the last forty years.

I generally post only the meditation from a memorial service.  But the songs, Scriptures, and prayers are very much a part of Nancy Shuford’s life.  So here’s the entire service celebrating her life of devotion.