Reformed Presbyterian Minutes of Synod 1993

180 1993 MINUTES OF THE SYNOD OF THEGod's sdength and comfort in a funeral service in which the wholecongregation can participate. While it is well to keep good rapport with thefuneral director, it should be remembered that the pastor determines thecontent and form of the funeral service. He wiU want to consult the familyregarding the participation of other ministers. There should be no compromisewith secret orders or other non-Christian organizations. If called toofficiate where such organizations desire to perform their ritual,the pastorshould keep his service distinctly separate.4. The funeral of a Christian is a service where we mourn the loss of aloved one and yet rejoice in the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ.The Scriptures are to have a prominent place. The singing of suitablePsalms is most appropriate. The prayers should be well considered andshould commend the bereaved to the comfort of God's grace. The addressshould be timely, and without undue praise of the dead. It should set forthChrist and His salvation as the basis of comfort to the bereaved and counselto the living. Remember that God in His grace often uses such times whenpeople's hearts are tender. It is fitting that the family be consulted beforethe service regarding appropriate Scripture readings, Psalms, and informationfor the obituary.5. At the grave the minister may use words such as these: "We committhe body to the grave in the hope of a glorious resiuTection through faithin Him who is the resunection and the life." Suitable Scripture may beread, such as 1 Corinthians 15:53-58, followed by a brief prayer and thebenediction.6. The congregation may anange for food and lodging for visitingloved ones. Where the bereaved person may be aged and alone, there maybe need for additional ways of support. Attention to the bereaved shouldnot end with the funeral, for often the most difficult times come afterward.Visits from the pastor, the elders or Christian friends are most welcome.The bereaved should be remembered in prayer at worship services andother meetings of the congregation.THE MARRIAGE CEREMONY7. Marriage is an ordinance of God, adapted to the nature of mankind,and designed for the welfare and happiness of men and women. It is theunion of one man and one woman, who covenant to live together and toperform faithfully the duties of husband and wife. It is not a sacrament, norpeculiar to the Christian church, but it is the duty of the church to requireits members to conform to the laws of God with respect to marriage.Christians should many only in the Lord and their marriage should besolemnized by an ordained minister of the Gospel. The state authorizesboth ministers and civil magisdates to perform the ceremony. Ministers