Expert: Gordon F. Stoneburner - 5/13/2009

Question
A dear friend of mine passed away last night and will be having a Catholic funeral.  I am an LCMS Lutheran and I was wondering what "rules" I should follow at the service.  I know that I should not accept communion, but are there any other things that I need to avoid?  I do not want to accidently break any rules.  Thank you so much for your time...I have read all of your other postings and have found them to be immensely helpful.

Answer
Crystal

Good question.  It sounds like you are right on track.  I would not participate in communion, but other than that, relax and do not worry about any rule breaking.  

Communion is a close fellowship issue for us LCMS Lutherans (though it is not for most other Christians).  Going to the funeral would be the proper thing to do for your friend's family (and possibly for you as well).  

I assume your friend was a Christian, which is a comfort in the time of a funeral.

In Christ's Service,

Gordon Stoneburner