Page 73 - Pastoral Ministries -Student Textbook

4. Sometimes you may be asked to assist in the selection of a casket, burial place, or clothes for the
deceased.
A. Be helpful when asked but do not take over

Tip #2: What to Do When Visiting in the Home

1. Ask about the desired place and time for the service. Church, funeral home, graveside? If they are
faithful church members, I encourage the use of the church facilities – a place of warmth, familiarity,
memories, and a major part of their lives.

2. Ask about the type of service: memorial if cremation or funeral if body present.

3. Ask who will officiate: pastor, former pastor, staff member, family member, or a friend who is a
minister.

4. Ask what type of music is preferred

5. Ask about favorite Scriptures: family preferences, life passages, or favorite verses of the deceased.
Often, I have used, as have many pastor’s, the deceased’s Bible from which to read.

6. Ask about any eulogy.
A. The pastor can deliver one he has written if he knew the deceased well or read one the family
has composed.
B. Extended family members and friends can also do this
C. Sometimes more than one eulogy is used. If so, be sure to have the participants write the
eulogies. This will guard the time as well as help them if they should be overcome with emotion.
It also keeps people from rambling.

7. Ask the family if they want a visitation.

8. Where will the committal be?
A. Cremation or burial ground
B. Do they want ashes to be scattered or kept.
C. Will there be a military salute, service, or club recognition

9. Ask about the people they prefer for active pallbearers.

10. Try to be there with the immediate family as much as possible when planning
the service.

Tip #3: What to Do When Scheduling the Service

1. Be sure space is available and the church calendar is cleared.
2. Times must be very clear.
3. Contact musicians.
4. If necessary, check with technical assistants for lighting, sound, recording, etc.
5. Prepare the order of service for all involved parties
6. Look at a time frame of thirty-five minutes to one hour for most services.

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