Rites of Passage and Human Drama

A few weeks ago, I presided over a funeral at a local crematorium for the brother of a close friend. Having conducted funerals for many years, I’ve observed intriguing shifts in behaviour among the bereaved, as well as changes within the religious institutions and crematoria where these solemn ceremonies take place.
Before the 1960s, Birth, Wedding, and Funeral rites were regarded by most people as significant. Significant because our own future has changed, and instinctively we need to validate our ‘feelings’ towards a future we did not foresee.
The particular 'Rite of Passage' I will talk about today is the one undertaken when someone has died, and their status is irrevocably changed. Funeral Rites give us time and so help us deal with the new situation affecting our daily life and our emotional mind.........
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