Funerals and Religious Ceremonies
Chinese Funeral
Interfuneral is an agency specialising in funeral services and offers assistance with the planning and organisation of funerals.
Here are some of the services that Interfuneral might offer for a Chinese funeral:
Consultation and planning
Interfuneral can provide personalised consultation to the family of the deceased, helping them to plan and customise the funeral service according to their needs and preferences, including the selection of specific elements for the ceremony.
Organisation of the ceremony
Interfuneral takes care of the practical organisation of the ceremony, ensuring that all necessary elements are in place for the service.
A Chinese funeral is a ceremony that follows the traditions and practices of Chinese culture and Asian religions such as Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism.
Overview of some elements that might be present in a Chinese funeral
Preparation of the body
The body of the deceased is prepared according to Chinese traditions, which may include washing and dressing the body appropriately for the occasion.
Funeral altar
A funeral altar is set up, decorated with flowers, candles, incense, and other symbolic offerings to honour the deceased and provide spiritual comfort.
Wake ceremony
A wake ceremony may last several days, during which family and friends gather to commemorate the deceased, recite prayers, burn incense, and offer gifts.
Buddhist or Taoist rites
Depending on the beliefs of the deceased and their family, Buddhist or Taoist rites may be included, such as recitations of sutras, purification ceremonies, and offerings of prayers for the wellbeing of the deceased’s soul.
Food offerings
Food and drink are prepared and offered for the soul of the deceased, in accordance with Chinese tradition which holds that the soul requires nourishment during its journey to the afterlife.
Funeral procession
The deceased’s coffin may be carried in a procession through the community, accompanied by family and friends who recite prayers and pay their respects.
Burial or cremation
Following the ceremony, the body of the deceased is buried or cremated according to Chinese cultural and religious traditions. During this time, further prayers and blessings may be offered.
Commemorative ceremonies
After the funeral, regular commemorative ceremonies may be organised to continue honouring the deceased and keeping their memory alive.
These are just some of the elements that might be included in a Chinese funeral ceremony.
Practices can vary significantly depending on the region, family tradition, and specific religious beliefs.
In general, Interfuneral is committed to providing a complete and respectful service that meets the needs and beliefs of the deceased’s family, ensuring that the funeral is conducted with dignity and care.
