Beliefs About Death

The Baptist Church teaches that physical death involves no loss of consciousness, that the soul of the redeemed passes immediately into the presence of Christ, that there is a separation of soul and body, and that such separation will continue until the first resurrection, when Spirit, soul, and body will be reunited to be glorified forever with the Lord. (Baptist Church Doctrinal Statement)

Until that time, the souls of the redeemed in Christ remain in joyful fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ. Baptists teach the bodily resurrection of all men, the saved to eternity, and the unsaved to everlasting punishment. (Baptist Church Doctrinal Statement)

Viewing

Viewings are common at Baptist funerals. Some pastors will encourage the viewing to be held at the Church (either prior to the funeral service or as a closing to the funeral service - an Invitational Period). Other pastors have no preference and the viewing may take place at the funeral home.

The Funeral / Memorial Service

Funeral and memorial services are personal, uplifting, meaningful and comforting. The pastor should be contacted prior to any arrangements being made. The pastor may visit and have prayer with the family at their home. The family will make the arrangements and provide suggestions for the service, but the pastor has the final authority.

There are three major types of services:

1. A small private service (memorial service).
2. A regular service at the funeral home, chapel or church.
3. A committal service at the grave.

The pastor will usually take suggestions from the family regarding eulogies, readers, singers, and special prayers - allowing the service to be as personal as possible.

The pastor will begin with a welcome and a few words about the deceased. Scripture readings will follow and family or friends may offer some words about the deceased.. The service will also include music - either form the choir or family and friends. It is appropriate to have an Invitational Period during the funeral.

Many African American traditions are incorporated into African American Baptist funeral ceremonies:

• A large, elaborate ceremony with friends and family from all over the country.
• "Flower Girls", the female counterparts of pallbearers, will give special attention to the closest family members.
• "Nurses" in white dresses will care for those who may be overcome by emotion
• Solos, choir renditions, or other musical offerings will be sung.
• A reception line of mourners at the funeral service.
• A large reception following the burial with friends and relatives.

Committal Service

The pastor will follow the hearse to the graveside or crematorium for farewell prayers and scripture readings.