Funeral Etiquette for Pastors
It is a pastor's responsibility derived from the authority given in ordination to perform the ecclesial act of burial by conducting funeral and memorial services while providing care and counseling to the grieving family.
Other People Are Reading
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When Death Occurs
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A pastor should travel wherever necessary to console grieving family members. At the time a pastor is notified of a death, there are three guidelines he should keep in mind: be prompt, be helpful, and be brief. He should visit the family to express sympathy and encourage discussion about what happened and how family members are coping with the death of their loved one.
The Following Day
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Prayer is vital in coping with the death of a loved one. The day following the death of a loved one, the pastor often assists with the final arrangements if they have not already been settled. On this day, the most important role to play is prayer leader, praying with the family members as much as is necessary to console them.
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The Funeral Service
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The pastor should provide appropriate Scripture readings for the service. On the day of the funeral, the pastor should arrive at the church or mortuary well in advance of the scheduled start time in order to prepare his own soul for the event that is about to take place, as well as to review all details of the service. He begins with a prepared Scripture reading followed by hymns and prayer. If family members do not feel comfortable offering a eulogy, the pastor takes time to say a few words about the dearly departed before the benediction and closing of service.
Commital Service
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The pastor speaks at the burial site. The pastor leads the pallbearers and casket to the hearse for transport to the final resting place. At the burial site, he stands at the head of the casket, reading a short Scriptural passage and concluding the funeral service.
After the Service
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Funeral dishes are often provided by members of the deceased's church. The family of the deceased often invites the pastor to a funeral dinner. This is an appropriate time to talk again briefly with the family, express concern, and make himself available for future counsel, if needed.
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References
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