Many symbols used in a Christian burial service refer back to the sacrament of Baptism, through which Christians share in Christ’s death and resurrection. Their faith is strengthened as they declare God’s glory and honor him for his magnificence during the Funeral Mass, where they offer him their worship, praise, and gratitude. Get the best Christian funeral services in Singapore here and give your loved one the perfect send-off. Some of the symbols used in Christian funeral services are listed below:
The Reception of the Deceased
The Reception of the Deceased at the church’s front door is symbolic of Christians’ remembrance of the church as the community’s spiritual center. Holy water sprinkled at this moment symbolizes the individual’s Baptism and reception into the faith community.
Incense
An offering of incense is made during the last commendation of the Funeral Mass because the deceased’s body has become a temple of the Holy Spirit through Baptism. This gesture is both a farewell and a declaration that the prayers for the deceased have been sent to God.
Cross
Cross is the sign of a Christian’s commitment to the teachings of the Bible and the promise of eternal life that Christians share because of Jesus’ death and resurrection.
Scriptures and Prayers
A Christian’s faith is fortified by the Scriptures’ promises of eternal life, reconciliation in God’s kingdom, and the comforting psalms and prayers that follow them. Family members can choose the psalm and readings. It is proposed that the Funeral Mass include three readings. Those closest to the deceased can declare the first two readings, while the priest or deacon should deliver the Gospel.
Presentation of the Gifts
During the Presentation of the Gifts, bread, wine, and water are brought to the altar. The gifts, which represent the Body and Blood of Christ to be distributed to all in attendance, are traditionally carried by members of the deceased’s family or closest circle of acquaintances.
Rite of Committal
The final act of care is the Rite of Committal. It is a practice meant to represent the death’s departure from the presence of the grieving. A funeral service may be held at the graveside, a cemetery chapel, or a crematorium. Through this brief ceremony, the church helps us conclude funeral arrangements and finally lay our loved ones to rest in the ground. Together with the Church, we form an unbreakable link, represented by this ceremony.