Bible Question: HI. WHAT ARE THE NORMAL DUTIES/RESPONSIBILITIES OF A CHURCH WHEN 1.A MEMBER DIES 2 A NON MEMBER CHRISTIAN DIES? |
Bible Answer: FytRobert, Hi brother, Scripture does not say what the church is to do in either case. However as a matter of courtesy the Pastor for one sure better go visit with the family of the loved one who passed. Generally they assist the family in any area he is welcomed to help in, be that being at the visitation, preaching the funeral and graveside services. Generally the church has a dinner after the services at the church and takes meal to the family for a couple of meals. Follow up is strictly depending on the Pastor. When a non-member dies that all depends upon the family of the loved one and their wishes. If the Pastor does the services most always he is given a sum for his services. If he feels circumstances warrant not accepting anything for his services that is his choice. Often the funeral home includes something for his services included in the cost of the funeral service. As for the church it is totally at the pastors suggestion to who ever is in charge of things like this. Above all else this is a time when people are more open to hear the Gospel as usually they may not be. Perhaps many pastor's feel this is a real opportunity for showing the love of Christ. In my personal experience, there were times when children were involved in a tragedy that resulted in their passing. A few were SIDS and one an accident. These are the most difficult to do. There is complete assurance that these little ones are in the LORDs presents and that's so beautiful. But the parents and other relative's are heart broken, special ministering is needed then often for sometime later. Parents often blame each other for the death of a child. It is not uncommon for a divorce to happen when a child dies. A wise minister knows this and takes caution to work with a couple in counseling the couple to help them to prevent blaming and give then support. No Pastor can be held accountable for how a couple copes with such loss and a couples reaction. However if a pastor is ill equipped and does little to minister then he is seriously accountable for being so inept. Being group called to be a church has a responsibility to the community, as well as does the pastor, because they are Jesus Christ to the community wher the LORD has planted them to minister the GOSPEL. Amen. justme |