Julia Upton is a featured instructor and contributor at Worship Training.
The Christian funeral must find ways to affirm Christian belief in Christ's victory over death, commend the deceased to God's mercy, and comfort the survivors. The key question to ask in focusing on the theology of the funeral is, "?What belief does this ritua
Christian rituals related to death did not begin at the funeral service. Dying itself was surrounded by many Christian rites. During the Reformation, Protestants' sharp attacks on the medieval beliefs in purgatory and intercession for the deceased eventually s
The following is an outline for an informal funeral service that reflects the themes described in the articles above. Song. Beginning with a song that expresses in a simple and meaningful way the feelings of those gathered together for the funeral immediately
Since the liturgical celebrations of the funeral bring together family and friends who are experiencing deep grief, the ritual itself should minister to these people. Therefore, the ritual should be attentive to all the senses; be marked by beauty, dignity, an
