Have you ever attended a funeral for someone of another faith?

Question

What did you learn from that experience?

Answer 1

I once attended a Catholic funeral. I didn't care much for it, honestly.

Answer 2

No I haven't. I never thought about doing that before -- I'm sure it would be an interesting experience. Hopefully I won't get the chance too soon though :)

Answer 3

never!

but if i did, i will feel very sad for the person is going to the grave.

Answer 4

Yes.  I have learned much about their beliefs and rituals.

Answer 5

Yes.

Although it was my former religion, so there was nothing new to learn.

Answer 6

Yes, my best friend who was a Hindu. Don't know what I was supposed to learn but it was a very painful experience.

Answer 7

Yes, I have attended both non-denominational Christian and a Muslim funeral.  I wound up disappointed by the Muslim funeral when one of the clerics began talking about the "Threat of Islamaphobia."

Answer 8

Several times...

I learned that most religious groups believe the same thing,  I.E. there is an afterlife of some sort... The difference is the wrapping paper each places around the belief to make it appear original...

The most interesting/bizarre funeral I have ever attended was for a Pentecostal woman I worked with, the people at the service were screaming out, rolling on the floor and babbling gibberish...  It reminded me of a preschool just before nap time when all the children were whining for attention and trying to top each other to garner that attention...  I kept a straight face throughout the service by biting on the inside of my right cheek and left very hastily when it was over, Although I sometimes wonder if my laughter would have been noticed with all the other activity in the room...  If I ever attend another service such as the above I might just laugh out and see if it's even noticed....  

Answer 9

yes, several Christian funerals with open caskets and wakes. I learned that I still appreciate the fact that I'm Jewish and we don't do things like that- no open casket out of respect for the deceased and the family "sits shiva" which is certainly nothing like a wake but allows the family to grieve fully so they can move slowly on. Also, that we bury the dead within 24 hours.

Answer 10

In a way I have.  It was still Christian, but it was Catholic and the belief of Catholics and Protestants is quite different.  It was interesting though to see their beliefs.   Also when my brother died my brother-in-laws mom said some things to us in condolence that made me realize the differences in our beliefs about death and the hereafter.

Answer 11

yes. a catholic funeral. i felt out of place.