1. Introduction
The Church holds a serious reverence for the sacrament of funerals, viewing them as a vital part of the spiritual care for individuals and their families. This policy outlines the guidelines for clergy regarding the officiation of funerals, particularly concerning non-members, apostates, and individuals associated with Masonic orders.
2. Purpose
The purpose of this policy is to:
- Establish clear guidelines for clergy on officiating funerals.
- Uphold the teachings of the Church regarding the spiritual welfare of its members and the deceased.
- Provide a compassionate response to families requesting funerals for individuals who may not meet the Church’s criteria.
3. Scope
This policy applies to all clerics within the Old Orthodox Church of Jerusalem, including priests and bishops.
4. Policy on Officiating Funerals
4.1. Funerals of Non-Members and Apostates
- Clerics are not permitted to officiate funerals for individuals who are not members of the Church or who have publicly renounced their faith (apostates). This policy reflects the Church’s teachings regarding the sacramental nature of funerals and the importance of a committed relationship with the Church.
4.2. Funerals of Masonic Order Members
- Clerics are also prohibited from officiating the funerals of individuals who were members of Masonic orders. This aligns with the Church’s stance on the incompatibility of Masonic membership with the Apostolic faith.
4.3. Funerals of Excommunicated Individuals
- In cases where a person has been excommunicated due to wrongdoing, the family may request a priest to officiate a funeral service with an abbreviated Divine Liturgy. This provides a means for the family to honour their loved one.
- Additionally, the grave of the excommunicated person should be blessed by the priest, signifying the Church’s pastoral care for the deceased and the hope for eventual reconciliation with God.
5. Conclusion
The Church is committed to maintaining the integrity of its sacramental practices while providing compassionate pastoral care. By adhering to this policy, clergy can ensure that funerals are conducted in a manner consistent with Church teachings, while still offering support to families in their time of grief. The Church remains a community of faith dedicated to the spiritual welfare of all its members, both living and deceased.
November 18, 2015
