Christianity
About
Christianity is an Abrahamic monotheistic religion with around 2.4 billion followers across several different denominations, making it the world's largest and most widespread religion, comprising of over 30% of the world’s population. This includes around 42 million Britons.
Christianity is based on the teachings of Jesus Christ as told by the Holy Bible. While the different denominations of Christianity vary widely in their traditions, all Christians believe that God sent his son, Jesus, to earth to save humanity from the consequences of its sins.
End of Life
In Christianity, death is when the eternal spirit leaves the body for the afterlife. When a Christian person is dying, they may request prayer, readings from the Holy Bible, and visits by a member of the clergy from their own church. Whether or not the dying person wishes to acknowledge the fact they are dying can greatly vary, and this should be approached sensitively.
Between the different denominations, dying wishes also tend to vary. Protestants may request prayers at the bedside, being anointed, or taking Holy Communion. Roman Catholics may wish to receive the Sacrament of Sick, or the Last Rites. Some Christians may appreciate holding or wearing a crucifix.
Generally, today's end of life care practices are in accordance with most Christian beliefs. While Christians view life as a sacred gift from God, they may withdraw from life support to embrace a natural death when dying. Pain relief is usually accepted.
After Death
When a Christian has died, the first gathering is called a Vigil. This takes place before the funeral and is an opportunity for the friends and family of the deceased to come together and celebrate the life of their loved one. It is common to exchange memories, read prayers, and sing hymns. This can take place at the bereaved family’s home, a Christian church, or at the funeral home.
A Christian funeral service can vary widely. Across most dominions, the service is usually held at a church, crematorium, or cemetery, and will include a combination of prayers, a sermon, eulogy, readings, hymns, music, and even poems. These may be carried out by loved ones or a priest. The service lasts around one hour, or longer when a mass is included. Cremations and burials are mostly accepted in equal measure between different Christian communities.
After a Christian funeral, a reception or wake is held at the bereaved family's home, where mourners gather to offer their condolences, read Psalms, and express their grief. Food and drink is usually provided and guests often bring flowers, gifts, and cards. The grieving period traditionally takes up to 40 days, but again this varies between the different denominations.