Church of Latter Day Saints- The Mormon Funeral Rite

Question 1

• Headquarters is in Salt Lake City, Utah.
• The name “Mormon” is a nickname associated with the Book of Mormon first published in 1830 and translated by Joseph Smith (the founder).
• Do not belong to protestant churches, but claim their authority was bestowed directly from God.

Answer 1

Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormon)

Question 2

• No full-time professional clergy
• Once a boy reaches the age of 12 he is ordained in the office of priesthood.
• Bishops hold full-time employment in areas outside the Church. They are called from the priesthood to serve for an unspecified time and without compensation for their service.
• Notification is not required, but the Bishops should be notified prior to the time that services are finalized to avoid conflicting schedules.

Answer 2

Notification of the Clergy

Question 3

• No specific requirements or restrictions
• Any restrictions would be due to civil law and not church law.

Answer 3

Removal of the Remains

Question 4

No specific casket, but the clothing is dependent on whether or not the deceased has “been through the temple.” If the deceased has not been through the temple, the choice is up to the family.

• In most instances, members of the church come to the funeral home to dress the deceased in the temple clothing (if they have been through the temple).
• Men commonly dress men, women dress women.

Answer 4

Dressing and Casketing the Remains

Question 5

White undergarments, socks, shirt, trousers, tie and moccasins. A robe is worn over the right shoulder extending diagonally across the chest in a stright line to the ankle, front and back. A green apron and white sash are placed over the waist. The sash is tied in a bow on the left side. A white cap is placed on the deceased’s head before the casket is closed. The cap has a bow on the left side and strong on the right side, which is tied to the robe.

Answer 5

Dressing- Men who have Been Through the Temple

Question 6

Similar to the men. White undergarments, hose, slip, dress and moccasins are placed on the deceased. The robe is worn over the right shoulder and extending diagonally across the chest in a straight line to the ankle. The apron and sash are placed over the waist and fastened similarly to those on the men. A white veil is draped on the pillow at the back of the head and placed over the face before the casket is closed. A ribbon is tied under the chin.

Answer 6

Dressing- Women who have Been Through the Temple

Question 7

• Bishop is contacted to determine order of service
• Can be at the funeral home or tabernacle
• Depending on where it is held, determination should be made on location of seating areas, placement of the casket and if flowers will be present for the funeral service.
• Visitation and viewing usually the evening before the funeral service. Can take place at the funeral home, residence, or at the tabernacle.

Answer 7

Pre-Service Considerations

Question 8

• May be held in the funeral home, ward chapel or the tabernacle, but not in the Temple.
• Simplicity is the key
• The use of a cross, crucifix, candles and other such items are not permitted.
• The use of flowers may be discouraged.

Answer 8

The Funeral Service

Question 9

• Prelude
• Invocation
• Eulogy/Obituary
• Musical selection
• Speaker
• Benediction
• Postlude

Answer 9

Example of the Order of Service

Question 10

• Earth burial is the customary method of disposition
• Other methods are permitted
• The preference of the family and the customs of the region may play a role in the decision as to the type of disposition.

Answer 10

The Committal Service