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Worship Resources for Funerals

While funerals have often been seen as family affairs or private activities, death impacts entire communities: both the worshiping community and the community at large. The resources below explore the value and vitality of funeral worship. 

May 20, 2021
Chaplaincy Changes during COVID-19

The coronavirus pandemic has raised the profile of chaplains and profoundly affected how they do their work. Learn how you and your congregation can pray for chaplains and those they serve.

May 12, 2021

Christine McAteer on the Coronavirus and Bus Chaplaincy

During the COVID-19 pandemic, bus drivers and other public transport workers have been praised as essential workers. Yet they remain largely invisible to those with the option to travel by private automobile. Your church can include bus drivers and other essential workers in congregational prayers.

May 12, 2021
Richard Bodini on the Pandemic and Senior Faith Formation

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced care facility chaplains to adapt. Your church can apply some of these best practices—and remember to include senior care residents and staff in congregational prayers.

May 12, 2021
Dileep Athaide on the Coronavirus and Port Chaplaincy

Pope Francis has said, "Without the people of the sea, many parts of the world would starve." Though seafarers aboard ships are essential workers, few people think of them. But port chaplains do. Your church can include seafarers and port chaplains in congregational prayers.

May 12, 2021

Kate Williams on the Coronavirus and Sacred Music

When COVID-19 forced churches and schools to go virtual, GIA Publications helped church music ministers and music educators adjust. Some digital adaptations are here to stay because they help connect music ministers, worshipers, and music educators.

May 11, 2021
Lucie Eddie Campbell: A Mother of Gospel Music

James Abbington was inspired to insert an old gospel song before the eulogy at the funeral for baseball star Henry “Hank” Aaron. The reaction prompted him to honor the heritage of Lucie E. Campbell, an influential Black gospel musician whom many people have forgotten.

May 11, 2021
James Abbington on Planning Henry “Hank” Aaron’s Funeral Music

Although news coverage of public figures’ funerals often focuses most on speakers and eulogists, music is crucial. James Abbington thought pastorally while planning music for baseball star Henry Aaron’s homegoing.

May 11, 2021

Vital Worship Grants awarded for 2021 by the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship    

The Calvin Institute of Christian Worship announced today that it will fund 25 Vital Worship Grants projects to Worshiping Communities for 2021-2022 as part of its Vital Worship Grants Program.     

April 29, 2021
Tune Our Hearts to Sing Your Grace

Beloved Hymns of Faith Led by Calvin University's Campus Choir, Capella, and Women's Chorale

April 22, 2021