How does the Golden Rule apply to funeral service?
There is no 'right vs. wrong' when it comes to showing reverence for the dead or comforting the grieving. Perhaps it is better to think in terms of appropriate vs. inappropriate, or thoughtful vs. thoughtless. When you're not sure what to do, the best course of action is always the Golden Rule: ”treat others the way you wish to be treated.” Under this ethical code, funeral directors, cremation societies and direct disposers are expected to treat with the greatest respect the clients they serve, the deceased with whom they are entrusted; the general public who seek information; the cultural values, religious traditions, and familial relationships of all; the private information they are given; and the laws of the state; and the profession in which they serve. The death of a loved one is an incredibly difficult time, and a family needs to feel supported and cared for when they choose a funeral professional to take care of a loved one. Ethical treatment of the deceased is the highest priority for cremation societies, funeral homes and cemeteries. It is an honor and a sacred duty to help a family when they have lost a loved one. It is a spiritual and reverent experience to care for those who have died. Those in Funeral Service are committed to leading the way in funeral industry ethics, and showing the communities, in which they serve that do take their duties and responsibilities seriously in showing reverence for the dead.
What should be done with the dead?
Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?" (I Corinthians 15:55)
Death is never a welcome visitor. Death may come suddenly or be preceded by a long, lingering illness. No matter how we may sometimes think we are prepared for a death, it is always perceived as “sudden” and without warning. Many people are so afraid of death that the topic is totally avoided from any thought or discussion.
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