I am so sorry for your loss. Navigating the pain of losing a loved one is one of life’s heaviest burdens, even when you knew the moment was coming. Grief can feel overwhelming, but you do not have to carry it alone.

My name is Steve Harness. As a pastor and counselor, my hope is to walk alongside you during this difficult season and offer the comfort, strength, and peace found in God’s presence.

A Free Comfort Booklet for You

Here is a free PDF booklet, “Leaving the Shadow of Death,” available for download. I pray these pages offer guidance and quiet encouragement and peace for your heart today.

Planning the Service

Perhaps a local funeral director gave you my contact card; it would be my privilege to serve your family. Please ask your funeral director to reach out to me directly regarding availability, timing, and location.

Sharing Your Loved One’s Story

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Thank you for your response. ✨

The funeral director or other family members will help you write the obituary and publish it online. I will also read the obituary you write during the funeral service. The following questions are asked in an interview style to help us get to know your loved one better through your eyes.

✨ Funeral service messages are derived from the Bible and tailored to remember your loved one’s life. A typical service goes as follows:

  • Welcome on behalf of the family.
  • Reading of the obituary and prayer
  • Family memories (if you choose, the floor is open to family to share some favorite memories of their loved one. Sometimes a song is sung or a poem read here).
  • Bible message.
  • Prayer and invitation to peace in Christ.
  • Conclusion and dismissal to graveside (if applicable).