[Christian Funeral] What is a Sabbath service? What are the procedures for a pastor to officiate?

The Sabbath service is an important funeral service in the Christian faith, designed to memorialize and pay final respects to the deceased. The service is officiated by a pastor and usually consists of a number of set procedures, such as scripture readings, hymns and songs, a sermon by the pastor, and prayers. Not only that, but it is also an important time for family and friends to remember the deceased and share memories, finding comfort and hope in the midst of grief. By understanding these funeral processes, we are better able to participate in Christian funerals.

What is Shabbat?

In Christianity, a Sabbath service is a special service that is not only a memorial to the deceased, but also a worship gathering. It can be held in a funeral home, church, hospital or mortuary. Unlike a regular memorial service, a Sabbath service is God-centered, with God's love and glory guiding the congregation to think of the deceased.

The main purpose of the Sabbath service is not to pray for the dead, but to make Christians understand the finite nature of life and the greatness of God's grace. Through this service, the church hopes to witness to the faith of the Lord and to spread a message of comfort to its parishioners and loved ones.

Sabbath Worship Program

The program of the Sabbath service will vary depending on the church context and the family's wishes for the funeral service, but in general, it will consist of the following parts:

Entombment

Before the ceremony begins, the celebrant will lead the loved ones to surround the casket and perform the rituals of reading, consoling, and praying, which is called the Entombment Ceremony. After the ceremony, the officiant will lead the casket out of the hall.

Formal Sabbath Funeral Procedure

• Invocation: conducted by the pastor or celebrant of the church.

• Hymn Singing: Family members and guests join in praising God's grace.

• Prayer: Prayer for the deceased and family members.

• Biography/Family Sharing: Family members can share their feelings about the deceased.

• Playing a video of the deceased's life: Playing a video of the deceased's happy moments with family and friends.

• Scripture Reading: Scriptures are quoted to comfort the family and friends.

• Condolence: The pastor will provide a message of condolence.

• Acknowledgment: The family expresses their gratitude to the participants.

• Blessing: The pastor conducts a blessing ceremony.

• Viewing: Guests may view the deceased for the last time.

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• Funeral: Officiant and family members lead the casket out of the chapel.

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• Cremation Ceremony: Cremation Ceremony was completed at the crematorium under the guidance of the celebrant.

  
  

Venue Setup and Attention

Wreaths and baskets of flowers are usually placed at the venue, and there can also be a Memorial Corner where photos and artwork of the deceased are placed. This not only allows family and friends to remember the deceased, but also creates an atmosphere of solemnity and comfort.

Taboos and Precautions in Shabbaton

Taboos

There are no fixed taboos in Christian Sabbath, but the customs of the bereaved family should be respected. For example, some family members may be reluctant to shake hands and this should be understood.

Attention to etiquette and address

Address the deceased with appropriate words and avoid using disrespectful words such as “corpse”. Being dignified is a sign of respect for the deceased.

Preparation for Christian Funeral

For family members and friends who are attending a Shabbat service for the first time, it is important to understand the purpose and etiquette of the Shabbat service. This not only ensures a smooth service, but also gives you a deeper understanding of the Christian faith and culture.

Dress Code

When attending a Christian funeral service, you should wear black or dark-colored clothing, avoiding revealing or brightly colored clothing. This is a sign of respect for the deceased and his/her family.

Attendance Procedure

Upon arrival at the chapel, sign in at the reception desk and pay the money. After entering the hall, you should pay your respects to the deceased and the family members can take their seats after the ceremony. Remember to greet the family after the ceremony.

Flower Offering in Christian Funeral Service

Instead of burning incense at Christian funerals, flowers can be offered as a form of tribute. This is a way of paying respect and avoiding the interference of incense.

How to deal with Thank You Packets and Condolence Money

The handling of the auspicious ceremonies is not specifically prescribed in Christianity and can be done in any way you wish. For Condolence Money, if you prepare your own envelopes, it is recommended that you use white envelopes and write the deceased's honorific name on the top.