Christian Funeral Services
Christian Funeral Services generally serve the same function as other funeral services: to celebrate the life of the deceased, offer comfort to those grieving, and hope for the future. The basic Christian funeral normally includes: an opening statement by the pastor or priest, then a message of hope or support for the family, followed by the body to be buried or presented in order of preference. Sometimes there is a reading of scriptures followed by prayer and hymns. It is important for the pastor or priest to keep the service Christian centered, so that all attendees feel welcome and at ease.
There are many different Christian Funeral Service practiced throughout the world. The most traditional Christian service, also known as a traditional funeral, ends with the burial of the deceased. In some Christian traditions, the funeral memorial service is conducted in a separate room or hall away from the family gathering. In other cases, the funeral includes a service that welcomes those grieving for their loss and gives them hope for a bright and wonderful future. In addition to these traditions, Christian funerals can also be as informal as possible. Often, the most meaningful part of a Christian service is when the minister or priest expresses his or her love and gratitude to those who have experienced loss and are experiencing sadness, especially during this time.
Some Christian denominations place great emphasis on the practice of visiting with those in mourning. Other Christian funeral services do not practice this as an attendance requirement, but rather pay tribute and remember the deceased. Some denominations, such as the United Presbyterian Church, encourage the participation of children and others in the services. For example, the UPC allows a child to read the funeral program and share a candle with the surviving children. While some denominations do not allow children to participate in funeral services, there are many Christian funeral services that do allow children to be present.
Christian Funeral Services and Christian Burial Services
There are also differences between Christian burial services and other traditional types of funerals. Some Christian burial services are in reality not a funeral service at all. Instead, they are a celebration of life and are attended by friends and family. They do not contain the traditional funeral program or eulogy, and there is no celebration of death.
Some other differences between the two types of ceremonies include the length of time spent at the service and the number of people present. While a standard memorial service is generally held for one hour, many contemporary christian funerals last up to three hours. Traditionally, the number of people who attend a traditional Christian funeral service is usually around 30. These large gatherings are typically held outdoors, which can make it difficult for some families to find a parking space for several hours.
In addition, the way in which the deceased has been mourned can differ between a standard funeral service and a Christian memorial service. A traditional memorial is concluded with a funeral ceremony by a minister, officiant, or pastor. A christening, where the child is laid to rest, is followed by a gathering where family and friends come together to say goodbye and give comfort to the grieving. At the conclusion of this gathering, friends and family gather to say a prayer of remembrance for the deceased and sign a special tributes book.