Christian Funerals - Different Types | Death and Dying

By JosieElyzabeth
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When it comes to Christian funerals, there are many different kinds. If you study this religion at any length, you quickly learn that there are many different faiths and denominations under the same Christian umbrella.

While all of these honor God, the traditions and message are slightly different. When choosing a funeral for yourself or a loved one consider their denomination and the way they celebrated their Christian beliefs.

But you'll also find a lot of overlap. There is no single right way to conduct Christian funerals.

A tradition that's observed in the Catholic church may be perfectly appropriate for a Protestant funeral. Don't be afraid to combine different traditions, just so long as nothing violates your personal beliefs.

During Protestant funerals the service usually takes place in a church or a funeral home. A minister conducts the service.

Family members and friends can usually participate by sharing stories about their loved one and giving eulogies. There's also a lot of prayer and hymns during the Protestant service.

As you can imagine, Protestant funerals aren't defined by a cookie cutter. There are even a lot of different kinds of Protestants.

If you're considering this type of funeral just consult your minister about different traditions and make sure you personalize to honor the person who has passed away.

Catholic funerals are very similar. They are usually more formal, but this is definitely not a rule. There are differences in the way that certain parts of the service are preformed.

The way the Holy Communion is viewed remains one of the biggest differences. Catholics believe it truly is part of Jesus' body, so the communion at the funeral is even more important and special.

Quaker funerals are another. In the Quaker tradition these are fairly somber events.

There is very little talking, and most of the time is spend silently praying and thinking. These services are always simple, never extravagant.

The funerals performed by the Greek Orthodox are usually a bit different. The body isn't preserved like it is in some Christian customs.

The bones are actually dried in the sun and are put into a building. The ceremony itself is usually just done with family members.

As you can see, there are many different Christian funerals. You'll find that all the different denominations conduct their ceremonies in their own way.

Of course, these are not set in stone and can change according to family traditions as well. Follow the way that you believe your loved one will be cared for and honored the best.

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