Attending a funeral requires sensitivity and awareness of the intimate and sentimental nature of the event for the family. To avoid unintentional hurt, it is essential to familiarize yourself with the process and rituals of funeral services beforehand.
Here is a guide to help you prepare for a Christian funeral.
Christian Belief
Christianity teaches that the soul’s fate is determined by the deeds of a person’s life, with good souls ascending to heaven and sinners destined for hell. Those with forgivable sins are believed to spend time in purgatory. Additionally, Christian tradition favours burial over cremation, but if someone is cremated, their ashes are buried rather than scattered.
Common Rites and Traditions Followed in Christian Funerals
Christian funerals may differ in proceedings and practices across various branches of Christianity. Nonetheless, there are certain rites and traditions that are typically observed.
Vigil
The Vigil is a pre-funeral event that takes place typically the night before the funeral. It serves as an opportunity for friends and family of the deceased to gather and remember their loved ones while offering support to the grieving family. The event often involves the sharing of fond memories, the singing of hymns, and the offering of prayers for the deceased. Vigils may be held at the family home, church, or funeral home and are generally considered a celebration of the life of the departed.
Funeral
Christian funerals are typically held in a church or funeral home, and the order of proceedings may differ depending on the specific denomination or branch of Christianity. However, here is a general guide to what one can expect at a Christian funeral service:
- The arrival of the Casket: Once all the attendees have arrived and settled down, pallbearers carry the casket into the church and place it at the altar. The priest then sprinkles holy water on the casket for eternal peace.
- Opening Speech: The priest starts the ceremony by welcoming the attendees and offering a word of support to the grieving family. Followed by an initial prayer for the deceased.
- Prayers & Hymns: Prayers and hymns are an integral part of the funeral service and you will witness them throughout the ceremony. Funeral attendees are also encouraged to be part of prayers and hymns singing.
- Scripture Readings: Scripture readings is the reading of verses from the Bible. It is also an important part of the funeral and is read by the priest.
- Eulogy: An eulogy is a speech delivered by a loved one in remembrance of the deceased. There is no fixed format for it. It can be formal or informal according to the wishes of the family.
- Closing Words: The ceremony is concluded by the priest delivering closing words in the shape of sermons and comforting words for the grieving.
Burial
Following the funeral service, the deceased is usually buried at a cemetery. The burial ritual is performed, and family and friends are given the opportunity to say their final goodbyes. The casket is then lowered into the ground, marking the end of the funeral proceedings.
Wake
A wake or reception is held after burial at the family home. It can be an intimate or open event according to the wishes of the deceased and their family. All family and friends gather to celebrate the life of the deceased. Prayers are read, condolences are offered, and Psalms are read at the wake. Food and drinks are also offered to the attendees. Guests often come with flowers and gifts for the grieving family.
Funeral Traditions
What To Wear?
Christian funeral dress code is dark colours. Black is the most popular colour for the funeral however, navy blue or brown are also acceptable. Clothes should be modest, covering the shoulders and knees of the wearers.
Tone and Expectations of Attendees
Christian funerals are typically formal and solemn events, and attendees are expected to maintain a quiet and respectful demeanour in honor of the deceased. However, participation in the singing of hymns is encouraged.
Conversely, the Wake is a less formal event where attendees can socialize and offer condolences to the grieving family. This gathering provides a supportive space for loved ones to come together and share memories and stories of the deceased.
What To Bring?
You are not obliged to bring anything at the funeral or wake. However, people often prefer to bring flowers and cards for the grieving family. Some families also accept donations for the deceased.
At the wake, other than flowers and cards, people also bring food for the family.
A Little About Us
Christian Funeral Services is a highly respected funeral service provider in Singapore. Our team of experienced and knowledgeable professionals will ensure that your loved one’s funeral proceedings are carried out with the utmost care and respect.
We offer customized funeral arrangements to suit your specific wishes and requirements. Simply share your preferences with us, and we will take care of the rest. Trust us to provide a meaningful and memorable farewell for your loved ones.
