Baptist Funerals
When a Baptist dies, their local pastor or minister is often contacted to assist in the planning of the funeral service. Baptist funeral services usually take place in a church or crematorium and are led by a Baptist minister.
The Baptist Church is a denomination of Christianity and the faith believes that eternal life is reached through believing in Jesus Christ. There are no central sets of rules and beliefs that church members have to preach, with each Baptist Church being independent and this means that funerals can differ. Baptist funerals also differ depending on the community.
When a Baptist dies, the family would contact the local minister or pastor who will assist in the planning of the funeral. Baptist funeral traditions differ between the churches, with most featuring Christian hymns, readings of scripture and a focus on the life of the person that has died, God and their faith. The order of service will focus on the role of God in the life of the person that has died and their soul reuniting with God in the afterlife.
It is common for a viewing service to take place a few days before the funeral service, at the funeral home or church. The viewing would usually be attended by the family or close friends.
The Baptist funeral generally takes place in church followed by the crematorium, but can also be just at the crematorium.
It is common for mourners to wear smart clothes in a dark colour at a Baptist funeral, however there is an increase in churches being open to wearing brighter clothes.
It is customary for mourners to send flowers to the bereaved but donations are encouraged.
