A summary of Christian practices and beliefs
Christians believe that Jesus was the son of God, came to earth to teach peace through his actions and lessons. They believe in both Heaven and Hell, respectively, they are the places where people will end up after death, depending on the actions performed during earthly life.
Christian writings are contained in the Christian Bible, known as the Holy Scriptures and it is formed by the Old and New Testaments. According to the New Testament, Jesus sacrificed himself to his enemies and was crucified. This sacrifice was made to pay for the sins of all mankind. A true believer in Jesus and the Christian faith will be forgiven for sins as a result of Jesus’ sacrifice and gain eternal life in Heaven.
The Bible was studied by Catholics and other religions who have interpreted and emphasized it through their beliefs, such as Mormons, Lutherans, Christians, Jews. Although these religions have slightly different beliefs, they follow the same principles and share similar funeral rituals.
What does it mean to be Christian?
The world Christian means: “Christ is in everyone”.”. The true question is not related to the belonging Church but if Christ lives in the person.
Being Christian doesn’t mean doing good and avoiding evil, believing in God, respecting certain rites, accepting truths of faith, following a tradition or preparing for the next life. Above all, being Christian or following Jesus means recognizing Jesus as Lord, accepting his plan, carrying out his evangelical style, being part of his community, living under the power of the Spirit.
When do you become Christian?
After the baptism, you became officially a Christian.
Christian funeral
The aim of the rite is to pray for the soul of the deceased, as well as to offer comfort and support to the deceased.
The typical Christian funeral includes:
- An opening statement lead by the priest or minister. Depending on the religion it may be either a prayer, a statement that shows support to the bereaved, or a combination of both.
- Prayers and hymns are read and sung throughout the funeral. Guests are often encouraged to read or sing along at appropriate times.
- Scripture readings are a common part of most services. Similar to prayer and hymns, the specific readings and their placement in the ceremony differ by religion.
- A remembrance given by a close friend or family member honors the life and gifts of the deceased.
- The funeral ends with closing words given by the minister. He states that the service is over and leads the procession to the cemetery.
- Graveside services also differ by religion. All services have some form of words of committal in which the minister either reads a prayer, praises Jesus and prays for the soul of the deceased.
- Christian funeral services focus mainly on the deceased entry into Heaven and God’s ability to give the grieving strength to cope with their recent loss.
