Obituaries, Eulogies

It is appropriate at the burial services to remember the life of the deceased. It helps one to grieve and come to grips with the reality of the death. There are two vehicles used to accomplish this.

The obituary is a brief listing of the major events of the deceased's life. Usually included in this are:
The date and place of birth,
The date and place of baptism, (if applicable)
The date and place of marriage, (if applicable),
The names of family members surviving, (if applicable)
The major accomplishments,
The occupation(s), and
The church and organization involvement.
The pastor usually reads the obituary at the beginning of the service.

The eulogy also remembers the deceased, however, in a much more personal, anecdotal way. A close friend or family member may reflect on his or her favorite memory with the deceased or reflect on how the deceased will be remembered.

This is not a time for remembering negative behaviors or attributes.

This is best given by a friend or relative, someone who knew the deceased well. The pastor could give the eulogy if he/she knew the deceased well or read one prepared by someone else. Eulogies usually are given at the very beginning of the service.