Memorial Services

We give voice to sorrow, thank God for our loved one, and trust the hands of God.

At a person’s death, the church shares the grief of those who mourn and remembers the brevity of life on earth. At a funeral or memorial we give voice to sorrow, thank God for our loved one, and entrust this companion of ours into the hands of God. Trusting in God’s promise in baptism that we are claimed by Christ forever, we rest in the sure hope of the resurrection. When the church gathers to mark the end of life, Christ crucified and risen is the witness of worship, the strength of mutual consolation, and the hope of healing.

Experiencing the death of a loved one is difficult. American Lutheran Church does not want you to go through that loss alone. We have compassionate pastors, staff, musicians, and congregation members who would be honored and humbled to walk with you during that time. We are open to holding a memorial or funeral service for anyone. That means you do not need to be a member of this church. If you would like a service for a loved one, please contact us.

How to hold a memorial

  • What’s the first step if I would like a memorial service at ALC?

    The first step would be contact the church at 623-974-2512 or email us at info@alcsuncity.org. Our Operations Coordinator will record some initial information including your name, phone number, the name of the deceased, their date of birth and date of death. Then one of our pastors will call you to set up a time to meet with you in person.

  • What does a memorial service look like at ALC?

    A Memorial service at ALC typically follows the order of worship for funerals from the Evangelical Lutheran Worship hymnal which includes scripture, prayers, hymns, and a homily. In consultation with the pastor and music director, you may select the scripture readings and hymns – a list is available to help guide you. Holy Communion may also be requested. Other details such as family remembrances, and burial or inurnment arrangements may also be planned with our pastor.

  • Do we need to have eulogies?

    No, you can request to have that time removed from the memorial service. Typically, in consultation between the pastor and family, two to three people are preselected to share memories of the deceased. We do not have an “open” time for people to come forward. We understand that there are people who would like to share a few words and encourage them to do so during the luncheon.

  • What happens after a memorial service?

    It depends. Sometimes there is a processional to a cemetery for a burial or inurnment. If a casket is present, the funeral home will make the arrangements. Other times, if a person has a niche at ALC’s columbarium, we will walk outside and then have the inurnment. On some occasions, the family will keep the deceased’s ashes or take them out of state to be buried.

  • Can I request to have luncheon or dinner?

    Following the service, you may request to have a reception or luncheon. We know this is a difficult day for everyone and it is important that everyone stay nourished. When we grieve the death of a loved one we forget to take care of ourselves, which includes eating. ALC has an incredible caterer and women’s group who can provide anything from cookies and punch to a full dinner. The pastor will provide you with their contact information.

Recent Memorials

  • William Dickinson

    The Celebration of Life Service for William Dickinson: Saturday, April 6, 2024 at 11:00 am

  • Wallace "Wally" Eklund

    The Celebration of Life Service for Wallace "Wally" Eklund: Thursday, April 18, 2024 at 10:30 am.

  • Mercedes Stevens

    The Celebration of Life Service for Mercedes Stevens: Saturday, May 11, 2024 at 11:00 am.

  • Linda Lee Falzone

    The Celebration of Life Service for Linda Lee Falzone: Monday, March 4, 2024 at 12:00 noon

    Watch Now »
  • Pastor Charles "Chuck" Paulson

    The Celebration of Life Service for Pastor Chuck Paulson: Saturday, February 10, 2024 at 11:00 am. ALC Sanctuary Live stream link coming soon.

    Watch Now »
  • Robert "BJ" Johnston

    The Celebration of Life Service for Robert "BJ" Johnston: Saturday, January 27, 2024 at 11:00 am. ALC Sanctuary.

  • Adolph "Andy" Andersen

    The Celebration of Life Service for Adolph "Andy" Andersen: Monday, January 29, 2024 at 11:00 am. ALC Sanctuary.

    Watch Now »

Recent Memorial Services