I don't know why, but I've been thinking about my funeral this morning. Don't misunderstand, I have no intimations that my death will be coming soon. Indeed, I specifically asked our guardian angels this morning, as I always do when I pray in the mornings, to protect me and my household from an unexpected death. And it's not because I'm feeling morose or sad or blue. As my friend Tripp can attest: I'm in a glorious mood today and vociferously demonstrated it as a passenger on the Tripp Hudgins Theological Short Bus. (See, Tripp, I was able to work that into a post!) No, I'm just thinking about my funeral. So here's what I want.
First of all, I hope to die in the Orthodox Church. Thus, I want my funeral to conform to the Orthodox service in all ways that are necessary and in whatever ways are appropriate to my status (as Orthodox or non-Orthodox) when I die. I want my funeral held in my home Orthodox parish (right now, All Saints Orthodox Church in Chicago), unless that would not be suitable, in which case any other appropriate location would suit me just fine, though it should be a church if possible. I would, in any case, like the Psalter prayed over my body prior to my burial.
At some suitable time, at the gravesite service if possible, I would like my family and friends to sing my favorite hymns over my body; namely, "When I Survey the Wondrous Cross," "O Sacred Head Now Wounded" (enough verses of each to convey the full meanings of the hymns) and the Nunc Dimittis. I would also like read the Gospel passage with which I have always most identified, Luke 7:36-50.
With regard to the expenses surrounding my funeral, I first defer to the needs of my family and friends to express their grief and hope. But compatible with that I would prefer that the least expense possible be spent. If it is compatible with the law, a simple pine box with a simple cross on the lid is perfectly suitable for my body. It will make no difference in terms of the Resurrection. In any case, the least expense that is compatible with the law should be spent.
Ultimately, I would like to be buried next to my wife, so whatever conditions that necessitates should prevail. However, if at all possible, I would like to be buried in the cemetery in Augusta, Kansas. The soil of that place is as much a part of me as anything, and I wouldn't mind keeping the connection till Christ comes. But if it is not possible to be buried there, Haverhill cemetery near Haverhill, Kansas (east of Augusta) is down the road from one of the places I used to live, and that would be suitable as well.
If anyone is moved to give a memorial offering in my name, they can do so to their local church's budget for provision of food, shelter and clothing to the poor.
I would that my family and their needs be always remembered, and that prayers for me be offered till Christ comes.
No eulogy. Preach the Gospel.
In all things everything must be done as is fitting for the glory of our Lord.
Posted by Clifton at March 3, 2005 09:10 AM | TrackBackYou, sir, have good taste in music...and transportation.
Peace and all good things to you.
And may you have a long life!
Posted by: Tripp at March 3, 2005 10:50 AM