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Christian practices
Across Catholic, Protestant, Orthodox and other traditions.
Christian funeral practices vary widely between denominations, but share a common foundation: hope in resurrection, commendation of the soul to God, and comfort for the bereaved through faith and community.
Common elements
- Funeral service — in a church, chapel, or funeral home; led by a minister, priest or pastor
- Scripture and prayer — readings from the Bible, hymns, eulogies
- Burial or cremation — both now accepted by most denominations (the Catholic Church accepted cremation in 1963)
- Wake or viewing — common in Catholic and some Orthodox traditions
- Committal — a short service at the graveside or crematorium
- Memorial service — sometimes held separately from the funeral
Denomination-specific notes
- Catholic — a Requiem Mass is the central funeral rite; sacraments (Anointing of the Sick, Viaticum) may precede death
- Orthodox — open casket is traditional; prayers for the dead continue for 40 days
- Anglican/Protestant — wide variation; some traditions are formal, others more personal
- Pentecostal/Evangelical — often celebratory; focus on the person's faith and the promise of heaven
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From bluetulipco.com/library/grief/christian — printed 1 October 2026.
General information only — not a substitute for legal, medical, financial, or therapeutic advice. Read the full disclaimer.
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