Funeral Officiant Skills Course

Full Course Information

Professor Henry Reyenga

Welcome to the Funeral Officiant Skills course, specifically designed to enrich and empower current and aspiring Christian Funeral Officiants with the knowledge, compassion, and skill set required to serve effectively in this vital ministry. This course is structured to guide you through the multifaceted role of a funeral officiant, providing you with a deep understanding of the theological, emotional, and practical aspects of conducting funerals within the Christian faith.

Course Structure

The course is divided into several key topics, each designed to explore different facets of the funeral officiant's role:

  • The Role of the Funeral Officiant: Delve into the fundamental responsibilities and the significance of the officiant's role in funeral services. This section includes readings and slides that outline the officiant's duties, the importance of their role in comforting the bereaved, and guidance on how to effectively communicate the Christian hope in the face of death.
  • Theology of Life, Death, and Resurrection: This critical component of the course examines the Christian perspectives on life, death, and the promise of resurrection. Through readings and slides, you will explore the theological foundations that shape the Christian understanding of mortality and eternal life, equipping you to offer profound hope and comfort to grieving families.
  • Planning a Funeral Service: From the initial meeting with the grieving family to the selection of service elements, this topic covers the practical steps involved in planning and conducting a funeral service. You'll learn how to create a service that honors the deceased, comforts the living, and glorifies God.
  • Crafting the Message or Homily: Learn how to prepare and deliver a message that resonates with both Christian and mixed audiences. This section provides guidance on gathering information, crafting a funeral talk that speaks to the hearts of the bereaved, and effectively communicating the Gospel message in a funeral setting.
  • Conducting the Service and Follow-Up: Beyond the service itself, a funeral officiant's role extends to logistical coordination and pastoral care. This topic covers everything from the day-of logistics to follow-up with the family, emphasizing the ongoing ministry opportunities with those who are grieving.
  • Additional Considerations: This final section addresses practical aspects of being a funeral officiant, including developing people skills, understanding the officiant's role as a clergy official, advocating for Christian burial practices, and the importance of collaborating with funeral directors.

Course Outcomes

By the end of this course, participants will:

  • Understand the theological underpinnings of Christian funerals.
  • Be equipped to offer comfort and hope to the bereaved through the Gospel.
  • Gain practical skills in planning and conducting funeral services.
  • Learn to craft and deliver meaningful messages that cater to diverse audiences.
  • Understand the importance of pastoral care before, during, and after the funeral service.
  • Navigate the logistical aspects of funeral services with professionalism and grace.

This course is designed not just to impart knowledge but to shape hearts, fostering a deep sense of calling and compassion among Christian Funeral Officiants. Whether you are new to this ministry or looking to deepen your existing skills, this course will equip you to serve with confidence, sensitivity, and unwavering faith, making a lasting difference in the lives of those you minister to during their time of loss. Welcome aboard on this journey of learning, growth, and profound service.

Resources: All content for this course is found in the readings and lectures. 

Assignments: View all video lectures. After viewing all readings and lectures for the unit, take the quiz based on the lectures and readings (100% of grade). You may refer back to them as you take the quizzes. The quizzes do not have a time limit in this course. You will be allowed one retake on a quiz in this course. 

Grading Scale:

A 95-100%   A- 90-94%   B+ 87-89%   B 83-86%   B- 80-82%   C+ 77-79%   C 73-76%   C- 70-72%    D+ 67-69%   D 63-66%   D- 60-62%   F 0-59%

Your average for the course must be at least 60%. Otherwise, you will fail the class and will receive no credit.

Deadline: You have 180 days to finish the course. Complete all assignments before the final deadline, or you will be automatically unenrolled, and all coursework will be removed. You will have to start over and retake the class to receive credit.


Final Feedback Quiz: The last quiz will ask for your feedback regarding this course. As you study and watch videos, please note any suggestions or issues you may have noticed to improve this course for students in the future.



Last modified: Sunday, March 31, 2024, 7:05 AM