Into Your Hands contains all that is needed to plan a funeral: the complete scripture readings and prayers of the Order of Christian Funerals, and an introduction explaining the different kinds of funeral service that are possible, and the meaning and importance of the elements they contain, scripture, prayer, symbol. This 2006 reprint also includes sample General Intercessions.In addition there are planning sheets to fill in, a checklist of what you need to know and do when someone dies, and a list of organizations whose task is to help the bereaved.
It is inexpensively produced, with a limp cover, so that parishes may buy copies in quantity to give to the bereaved and their families. At the same time, it is laid out in a dignified manner to make it suitable for private prayer and reflection, and as a prayer book for vigil services.
This is an invaluable book for clergy or lay people to use in helping the family to prepare the funeral. Together with In Sure and Certain Hope, a book for lay ministers leading funerals, it represents a new step in collaborative ministry, allowing those most involved in this liturgy, which takes place at such a significant and painful time, to play their full part in it.