'Final Gift' funeral workshop is July 10
The fourth annual "Final Gift" workshop will be held at Union UCC Church in Hackensack, on July 10, from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Participants will assemble a notebook with their written instructions and wishes regarding their own death, which will be available to their families at a time when decision-making can be a burden in a time of grief.
The death of a loved one plunges family immediately into making decisions and it is often a time of confusion and frustration. There are more than 50 decisions that must be made in the first 24 hours following a death. One of the best gifts we can give for our own peace of mind and to ease the burden to those we leave behind, is a record of our wishes and other information that will be of benefit to them. Life Insurance, a will, funeral wishes and a list of people to notify are a few of the important matters that need our attention now to avoid confusion, extra expense and undue anxiety for those we leave behind. Such pre-planning is an act of love.
Craig Dennis and Jay Kline, local Funeral Directors, will cover topics like pre-planning, options for funerals, dying away from home, what to do first, the economics of burial, cremation, and other related topics. Both presenters will be available to answer questions.
Pastors Michael Small and Sheila Hunter will present information and lead discussion of church services, Memorial or funeral options, putting together a service and answer questions about why we have funeral or memorial services, scripture, music, graveside services and related topics.
Marty Mann, Parish Nurse, will discuss Advanced Directives, and lead a discussion and question/answer period. She will lead participants in organizing the notebook of information, writing an obituary, listing other information that will be helpful for families.
Pre-registration is required, along with a $35 fee to reserve a place. The workshop will begin at 9:30 a.m., with distribution of materials, coffee and treats. Presentations will begin at 10 a.m. and lunch will be provided. The workshop will be held in Friendship Hall at the church location on Lake Avenue in Hackensack. The facility is handicapped accessible.
To register, call the church office at 675-6300. Questions may be directed to Marty Mann, Parish Nurse, at 675-2283.
