Should A Funeral Be In A Church?

In the past few hundred years, all houses had a parlor on their front porch. In the parlor, the family would have the best furniture, the most beautiful decorations and even a large, unnoticeable door. As a showcase to represent the family home, the furniture and decorations served to impress guests. It was used to bring coffins through the large door off to the side. There was more intimacy involved with death then, or at least, it was more personal. The lack of computers, phones, or three-hundred pictures on Facebook might have contributed to this. Traditionally, the deceased would be bathed, dressed in formal wear, and laid out in their coffins or on beds in their parlors. A ceremony was held at the church, followed by a burial at the graveyard once everyone had paid their respects. You may also choose to have the service at funeral homes in Whiteland, IN. Here’s some things to keep in mind when deciding. 

It’s Traditional 

With the Civil War, North America saw the beginning of the funeral industry. In the period between 1861 and 1865, 600 000 soldiers died, leaving many grieving families wanting to see their loved ones one last time. It was made possible by Dr. Auguste Renouard. The Civil War was fought during which Dr. Renouard embalmed soldiers so that their families could receive them safely home. As a result, coffin makers became undertakers during this period. They were able to see an increase in profits in the market and jumped ship as soon as possible. In one of the first embalming schools, Dr. Renouard demonstrated how to do it. We know funeral homes, visitation centers, and chapels today as the result of the parlors built by undertakers. This funeral process has been followed for many years: two viewing days, followed by a service, burial, and reception. More than 150 years ago, dead soldiers had to be shipped home to their families. 

Is It Necessary? 

As a result, undertakers created a demand for services. As a service location, a funeral home was unnecessary, although an embalming facility was required. Parlors were doing a good job before they became one-size-fits-all chapels. Families were probably not served well by pulling them away from their churches during a time of grief. Overarching values of faith, love and community in the church are faith, love, and community. Holidays, weddings, baptisms, and funerals are other reasons why people go to church apart from weekly mass. What are the reasons for removing funerals from this? 

Consider your church as the main location for the funeral services if you are part of a church. Memorial services, visitations, and receptions can almost always be held in churches. There are even cemeteries on site sometimes. If you are planning a service for your loved one and can’t decide if you want to have that service at funeral homes in Whiteland, IN or in a church, keep the above tips and ideas in mind. If you need help making your plans, be sure to reach out to us for help.