The last funeral I went to was tough. It was Catholic, as most of my family is. The Priest kept talking about the “folly of those who believe death is destruction”, and how we would all see him again. As the only atheist (I think) in attendance, I felt like I was the only one who didn’t have that hope. My family was singing songs, and I got a bunch of funny looks when I was just standing there silently, but I really didn’t feel in the mood to sing hallelujah. It didn’t help that I didn’t have really anyone to talk to about it, since I’m not close to any other atheists/rationalists. A community really would help, but it hasn’t been started yet. Maybe I should try, if I can get some time.
I don’t know how to put it exactly, but the Christian funeral seems to be about a direct denial of what is obviously an emotionally devastating event. I grew up Catholic, and served as an altar boy at funerals, and it was just the same formula repeated over and over. I’m sure you’re not the only one who was there who didn’t believe the story, you were just being honest about your emotions. That’s why I think communities really help. Sorry I don’t have any recommendations on putting one together with a busy schedule.
The last funeral I went to was tough. It was Catholic, as most of my family is. The Priest kept talking about the “folly of those who believe death is destruction”, and how we would all see him again. As the only atheist (I think) in attendance, I felt like I was the only one who didn’t have that hope. My family was singing songs, and I got a bunch of funny looks when I was just standing there silently, but I really didn’t feel in the mood to sing hallelujah. It didn’t help that I didn’t have really anyone to talk to about it, since I’m not close to any other atheists/rationalists. A community really would help, but it hasn’t been started yet. Maybe I should try, if I can get some time.
I don’t know how to put it exactly, but the Christian funeral seems to be about a direct denial of what is obviously an emotionally devastating event. I grew up Catholic, and served as an altar boy at funerals, and it was just the same formula repeated over and over. I’m sure you’re not the only one who was there who didn’t believe the story, you were just being honest about your emotions. That’s why I think communities really help. Sorry I don’t have any recommendations on putting one together with a busy schedule.