What Happens When You Die?
A Practical Look
March 7, 11:30 a.m.
Far Hills Flag Room
We were out on the golf course on a beautiful summer morning. It was our weekly gathering for “Swing and a Prayer,” beginning with breakfast and a Bible Study, then off to the golf course for a time of fellowship on the links. As I walked the fairway with a member of the church, he turned to me and asked, “Pastor, what happens when you die?” This is a rare moment in ministry when a question is asked for which your theological training can kick in. Death and resurrection, hope and promise. I thought, “This is great! I am ready to offer a response of which my seminary professors would be proud.”
And so I started in, talking about the promises God offers us through Jesus Christ and the empty tomb. I was on a roll, but I didn’t get far.
“I know all that, Pastor,” the church member interrupted, “and I believe it. But when someone dies, what do you do? Who needs to be called? Who is in charge? That is what I want to know.”
Good questions. Questions we don’t discuss very often, because who wants to sit down and talk about funeral plans and details? It doesn’t make for good dinner conversation. So we avoid the subject until the time comes for us to deal with the situation of a loved one’s passing head on. And when that time comes, our mental status and emotional stability are questionable, if we are able to function at all.
So I decided it would be good to have this discussion with members of the church about what happens when you die. As a pastor, we are used to dealing with the details involved with the funeral home, the hospital, the church service and all the other details. We have been through this process many times. I compiled the information and put together a presentation for the congregation.
During the presentation, I distributed packets for members to fill out, if they so desired, to do some pre-planning for their own funerals. I shared with everyone that these are not legally bound documents, and funerals are for the living. So you may be offering your wishes, but the family will be making the plans. That being said, I have found these documents to be very helpful in funeral planning. Even in my own family, we have benefited from similar materials. My parents put together some things that they wished to have for their funeral. Even though I am a pastor and have done dozens of funerals, and I have a brother who is also a minister, we appreciated the information when that time came.
I am offering this same presentation at Epiphany Lutheran Church on March 7 at 11:30 am as part of our monthly Young at Heart Flag Room chats. We will discuss what happens when you die, what will take place before, during and after a funeral or memorial service, and more. We will discuss cremation, memorials, and much more. I will offer packets that members can fill out and keep at home in safe keeping, as well as turn in a copy to the church so that we have that material as well.
I hope you can join us.
If you are interested in a packet to fill out, click here or contact me.
In the midst of all of this, remember Jesus Christ is our hope. If you want a good theological answer to the question, I am always ready!
Peace,
Pastor Charlie