Christianity is one of the most widely practised religions globally. The same holds true in Singapore, with 18.9% of the population identifying as Christians. Among those who practised Christianity, the religion is divided into various subgroups, with most Christians identifying as Catholic or Protestant.
While both faiths derive their teachings from Jesus Christ, there are subtle differences between both beliefs that may not be immediately apparent to non-practitioners. These distinctions also apply to their funeral customs. For example, a Protestant funeral (Christian funeral service) is less ritualistic, with more emphasis placed on commemorating the departed. Meanwhile, a Catholic funeral focuses more on the rituals.
However, the distinction between both funerals extends beyond the example shared above. Read on if you are interested to learn more about the differences between both sets of funeral services.
Beliefs
Catholics and Protestants believe in a life after death, with the concept of an afterlife featuring prominently in both practices. However, Catholics also believe in the existence of purgatory, which is a state of waiting where the decedent can atone for their sins. As a result, a Catholic funeral generally focuses on praying for the departed’s soul, with a sombre atmosphere to match.
Meanwhile, when a death occurs in a Protestant family, the family members believe their loved ones have ascended to Heaven to be with God. Therefore, the death is viewed as an occasion worth commemorating. As such, the general atmosphere of a Christian funeral is less sombre. Instead of rituals, a pastor will conduct a night service, which typically consists of worship, praise, and some sharing of the word and eulogies.
Eulogy
In Singapore, it is rare but not uncommon for a family member to give a eulogy during the funeral service to commemorate the life of the departed. In a Christian funeral, this tribute is often delivered during the memorial when a pastor leads the congregation in the night service.
Conversely, eulogies are not delivered as part of the funeral mass in a Catholic funeral, as the service tends to be more ritualistic, with specific customs and rites to follow. Instead, the bereaved family and guests are encouraged to eulogise the decedent during the Prayer Vigil, a time for friends and family to gather and remember the departed.
Funeral rites
In a Catholic funeral, the rituals are generally carried out by one or more priests, as they guide the funeral mass in a series of prayers, communion, and the absolution of the departed. During the absolution process, the priest will sprinkle holy water and incense on the casket while leading the congregation in singing the hymn.
In contrast, a pastor usually leads a Christian funeral. There is no absolution ritual involved in the memorial. Instead, the night service consists of the singing of hymns and the reading of Christian scriptures.
However, in both cases, the casket is transported for burial or cremation once the funeral service concludes. In the event of a cremation, the bereaved family can opt to enshrine the urn in a government or private columbarium or scatter the remains at sea.
At the end of the day, the funeral rites and customs of both faiths offer comfort and solace to practitioners during this trying time. A reliable and experienced funeral director can assist with the funeral arrangements, ensuring everything is in order so the family can provide the departed with a dignified send-off.
If you seek a funeral service provider familiar with various funeral arrangements, look no further than Excellence Funeral Services. Our experienced team has assisted numerous families of different faiths with the funeral arrangements of their loved ones. Contact us today to learn more about our Christian and Catholic funeral packages and rates.
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