For my … Although the method of mourning differs from continent to country to religion, there is one overriding theme that is universal – honor and respect for the deceased is prevalent in all who mourn the loss of their loved ones. After the funeral, the casket is sealed and carried to the hearse. A Buddhist burial is basically the same as with most other religions. Vigil candles and incense are lit to signify the presence of their loved one, and it’s a time for reflection and prayer. From the New Orleans jazz funeral and South Korean burial beads to sky burial in Mongolia and Tibet and Balinese cremation ceremonies, these rituals and ceremonies are often associated with religion as communities follow the traditionally prescribed movements in the wake of a loss of life. Saying a Wiccan prayer with faith can help us overcome the painful death of a loved one, whether human or animal, and receive strength, wisdom and tranquility. Burial Traditions and Practices. The immediate family usually takes the week after the funeral off work and family members welcome people into their homes for a short visit. Dane June 27th, 2011 at 3:58 PM . But they don't have to be limited to an organized grief group or structured spiritual practice. This especially happens when you are grieving over the loss of … The funeral is usually a service presided over by a religious leader. Death rituals are well documented throughout history –– and around the world. MOURNING THE DEATH OF A CHILD. ... or connect us with living or deceased loved ones. This is part of our Diverse Expression of Grief series, written by Hilary Dockray.This article is intended as an educational piece to share other cultures’ beliefs around death, grief, and the afterlife. Ritual foods, clothing and behavioral rules are key parts to mourning in almost every tradition. The following is a broad overview of how traditions worldwide. In many cases the family of the deceased is thought of as ritually impure, and candles are used as a way to commemorate the dead. The Power of Rituals to Heal Grief Four questions can help develop a ritual for honoring loss and healing grief. After the death of a person, many a time it is seen that the funeral rite is performed merely as a formality or as a part of fulfilling duty towards the family. The males may join in with singing and dancing to honor the deceased. But knowing about rituals of grief in different cultures can help us find our own way to deal with death and also to support those around us who experienced a loss recently. In many sections of Africa, mourning lasts for a week. Greek Orthodox Church’s Views on Grief, Mourning Periods, and Remembering the Dead. Prayer helps us keep our heart and mind in the hands of our pagan deities or forces of Nature, guiding our steps. Funeral … They are a conduit to the divine and act as a path to healing. 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