When the Call Comes

Pastors often cite funerals as among the most daunting ministries they face, one for which they feel least prepared . . . "What is the purpose of a funeral and why have one?" "What is my role as a pastor, walking families through grief?" "What should I say when I meet with the family for the first time?" "What do I do in the case of a difficult death: suicide, violence, or infant death?" "How do I conduct a funeral?" "What do I do when 'the call' comes?" "When the Call Comes" is designed to help ministers answer these and other questions as they walk with families in grief. It examines the "whats," "hows," and "whys" of funeral ministry, from the initial call to the conclusion of the graveside service. Included are resources pastors can use to help them prepare effectively for each funeral and graveside service: Scripture references, committal statements, benedictions.