Funerals
When a member of our dies, everyone shares grief. Death is a time for embrace of family, church, and neighbors. Burial practices differ somewhat among the various groups of Mennonites.
Among some of the more modern groups of Mennonites, a funeral or memorial service is usually held in the church. A meditation full of hope yet instruction for the living is given. There is a lot of singing about the comfort and joy of the next world. Caskets tend to be simple but not homemade. Burial most often takes place in a cemetery adjoining the church. Flowers are permitted. Many families plan a personal, creative funeral service for the deceased member rather than follow some of the traditional forms for a service. (See also Death and Dying.)
The Amish follow specific guidelines for funerals. Simplicity is the key word. Amish often make their coffins. A funeral director assists with the embalming of the body. After the body has been prepared for burial, it is usually brought back to the house where it will be viewed and the funeral will take place. Burial usually takes place in a church district cemetery. A simple tombstone is used and no flowers are placed at the site.
