Altar Flowers

As part of our care of creation, on most Sundays, instead of flowers, we have several Peace Lilies that are used to adorn the Altar for the celebration of Holy Communion, and then cared for during the week.

If you would like to provide flowers, given to the glory of God and in thanksgiving, memory, or honor of someone or a particular celebration there are a few ways to do that. Giving flowers is a beautiful way to mark a special day or event or memory for you, and to share that with your church community.

Please give at least 14 days notice to provide or order flowers yourself, and at least 30 days if you choose the option to have the Altar Guild order flowers.

Use the button below to find a form to gather information for a special Sunday for you to provide altar flowers.

Arrange your own flowers

One of the easiest, and most economical ways to give flowers is to purchase your own from a grocery store or florist, or pick them from your garden. You can pick up a pair of matching vases from church to arrange them in two matching arrangements, and then deliver before worship on Sunday morning. Please plan at least 14 days ahead to do this.

Order flowers from a florist

If you prefer to have a florist arrange your flowers, you may order from a florist of your choosing and arrange for delivery. When choosing this option, please order 2 matching arrangements in matching containers, or in 6” diameter disposable containers that can be inserted into our brass vases. Please arrange delivery during office hours, or pick up the flowers and bring them to church yourself.

Donate and St. Aidan’s altar guild will provide the flowers

If you would like to use this option, we suggest a minimum donation to St. Aidan’s of $180 for altar flowers from a local florist, including and delivery, and at least 30 days notice. The link to donate online is here, please choose “Altar Flowers.” You may also give by check through the office or the Sunday Plate, note “Altar Flowers” and the date you have chosen, and include the memory or thanksgiving.

funerals or special services

Flowers for funerals or special services are provided by the family using any of the above options, in consultation with the clergy who are coordinating the service. Many families choose to leave the Altar Flowers for the next Sunday services, as a way of connecting with the whole congregation and remembering those who have died. A funeral in Church requires two altar arrangements. A funeral in the Chapel requires one arrangement. Many families also choose to have additional flowers for the body or cremated remains, if present.

Special Seasons

At Christmas and Easter, we invite many people to give toward decorating the altar with poinsettias, lilies, hyacinths, or other potted flowers.  On Christmas Eve and Day and on Easter Day you may still give altar flowers.

For Christmas 2025, all Christmas Poinsettia donations and memorials are needed by Sunday, December 21 to be included in the Christmas Eve and Day Bulletins. Please donate online here and if giving a check or cash, be sure to include a (legible) note with your name and the memorial you are offering this Christmas. A suggested donation is $25 or $30 per poinsettia. Funds collected in excess of what is needed will be used for Altar Flowers for other special occasions.

If you would like to provide the Christmas Altar Flowers (instead of a poinsettia) by any of the means above, please reach out to the Church Office no later than Sunday, December 14.

The Paschal Candle at Eastertide