Funeral Services by E. K. Slade

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Mar 14, 1912

Funeral Services

By E. K. Slade

E. K. SLADE

The form of funeral services has varied much with the passing of years and among the different nations. A service consisting of proper music, prayer, words of comfort and consolation, and manifestations of respect and sympathy, is quite universally approved at this time, though there is some tendency to become objectionably formal. To deviate radically from the prevailing customs in the main features of a service would be unwise, and should be avoided as long as truth and principle are not involved.

A minister of the gospel seldom performs a service that calls for more ability and divine aid. At no time are tact and appropriateness more needed. It is not only an occasion for ministering to the mourners, but it affords an opportunity to place before the many neighbors and friends who usually attend, some beautiful gems of truth which they might not receive in any other way. However, a desire to impress such friends favorably should not lead a minister to neglect to present some of the precious, comforting truths to those whose hearts are broken, that they sorrow not as others who have no hope.

A funeral sermon should never be argumentative. It is unfair and unprofitable and altogether out of place to conduct a study or give a discourse dealing with doctrinal subjects known to be offensive to many of the hearers. I recall an incident not altogether pleasant to think about. The speaker discoursed to a large gathering of people at great length on some of the lines of prophecy. While he was presenting these prophecies, it was evident that his hearers were displeased and perplexed, and the comments heard afterward only emphasized the inappropriateness of the service. This is perhaps an extreme case, yet it is without doubt true, generally speaking, that too little care is exercised in this matter by our ministers. An argumentative sermon on the nature of man, the state of the dead, or the resurrection, would, in the mind of the writer, be out of place. Beautiful truths regarding these subjects may be presented in most attractive setting and in an inoffensive manner. In connection with such themes as Life in Christ, Triumphant Death, and the Home of the Saved, it is possible, in a short sermon, to leave the hearers favorably impressed, and deeply interested in some of the vital truths not so commonly believed. This is a matter of great importance, and should be given careful consideration by those called to conduct such services. Careful preparation is required, and a broad knowledge of the great truths of the Bible is necessary in order to stand before all classes and people of varied religious views, and conduct a service that will be appropriate, winning, and effective.

Long funeral services are decidedly objectionable. We have known of people listening to a funeral sermon an hour and a quarter in length. Their respect for the occasion would not permit them to escape the ordeal. Every circumstance calls for brevity. Usually there are long drives. The friends and relatives are weary and worn, and some may be very feeble. Teams are often out in bad weather. From twenty to thirty minutes is plenty of time for the sermon.

It seems out of place to eulogize extensively, or to be too pronounced in regard to the fate or lot of the deceased. We can speak very definitely about the reward of the righteous, but we are not required to express a specific opinion, as some frequently do. There can be no question as to the appropriateness, in some cases, of dwelling to some extent upon the life-work and Christian experience of the deceased. The mistake is sometimes made of unduly appealing to the emotions of those present. Many openings have been created for holding meetings and raising up churches through wisely conducted funeral services. The situation in connection with such occasions should lead ministers to be discreet, tactful, and well prepared for such duties.

Mt. Vernon, Ohio.