Guide to Funerals and End of Life Arrangements for Mormons

For members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints—often called Mormons—death is viewed as a passage rather than an ending. Their end-of-life customs and funeral traditions reflect this spiritual outlook, emphasizing hope, eternal life, and family unity. Whether you’re planning a funeral or attending one, this guide provides insight into Mormon beliefs and what to expect from related services.

Core Beliefs About Death

Mormon theology is rooted in the idea of eternal progression. The body and spirit are seen as distinct, and while death separates the two temporarily, resurrection will reunite them in a perfected state. This view creates a funeral environment that is peaceful, reverent, and full of hope.

Key LDS beliefs about death include:

• The spirit continues on after death: The person’s essence is not lost but enters a spirit world for continued growth.
• Death is a temporary separation: Families sealed in temple ceremonies are believed to be reunited in the afterlife.
• Hope outweighs sorrow: Though grieving is natural and encouraged, there is a spiritual understanding that the person lives on.

End-of-Life Customs

During the final days of life, Mormons often rely on their community and faith to provide support and comfort. These final moments are typically spiritual in tone, with prayer and scripture providing reassurance.

Here are common end-of-life practices within the LDS faith:

• Gathering of loved ones: Close family members and fellow church members may come together to provide emotional support and help the individual prepare spiritually.
• Priesthood blessings: Male members of the Church holding the Melchizedek Priesthood often administer blessings of comfort or release to the dying, praying for peace or an easy transition.
• Encouragement to reflect on eternal life: Scriptures and words of comfort often focus on the next phase of existence, not just the present sorrow.
• Hospice care and medical intervention: These are considered acceptable, including the use of palliative treatments for pain and suffering.

There are no religious objections to pain medications, organ donation, or withdrawal of extraordinary life-saving efforts when death is imminent.

Mormon Funeral Services

Funerals in the LDS tradition are spiritual gatherings that aim to honor the deceased, strengthen faith, and comfort the bereaved. Services are structured but heartfelt, balancing reverence with an uplifting tone.

Here’s what you can generally expect at a Mormon funeral:

• Location and leadership: Services are commonly held in an LDS meetinghouse (chapel), although funeral homes may also be used. A local bishop typically presides over the service.
• Religious tone: Rather than elaborate rituals, the focus is on the plan of salvation, eternal families, and Christ’s resurrection. Crosses, candles, and icons are not used.
• Music and hymns: Traditional LDS hymns like “Families Can Be Together Forever” or “I Know That My Redeemer Lives” are commonly sung, either by the congregation or choir.
• Talks and eulogies: Church leaders, friends, and family may speak, often focusing on the deceased’s character, faith, and legacy rather than dramatic mourning.
• Viewings and visitations: These typically occur before the service, either the evening prior or just before the funeral.

Following the funeral, a graveside service is often held, which may include a brief dedication of the grave by a priesthood holder.

Embalming

Embalming is permitted and often encouraged in LDS funerals, particularly when a public viewing will be held.

Here’s how embalming is generally approached in the Mormon faith:

• Not doctrinally required: Embalming is not a spiritual mandate, but many families opt for it due to practical reasons such as preserving the body for viewings or extended travel.
• Aligned with respect for the body: Mormons believe the body is sacred and should be treated with reverence. Embalming is viewed as a way to care for the body in death, especially when it helps the family say goodbye.
• Common for open-casket funerals: Many LDS funerals involve open-casket viewings, particularly if they take place in a church building. Embalming helps prepare the body for this purpose.

If the family chooses cremation or does not wish for a viewing, embalming may not be needed.

Burial and Cremation

While burial remains the preferred method of disposition among Mormons, cremation is accepted, especially when required by legal, financial, or cultural circumstances.

Here’s a closer look at each option:

• Burial: Viewed as a symbolic act of faith in the bodily resurrection, burial is often chosen when feasible. Cemetery services may include the dedication of the grave by a priesthood holder.
• Cremation: The Church does not encourage cremation, but it does not prohibit it. Families are counseled to make the decision prayerfully and respectfully. When cremation is chosen, the ashes are usually interred in a cemetery or columbarium.
• Aquamation: Also known as alkaline hydrolysis or water cremation, this newer method is not explicitly addressed in LDS doctrine. Families interested in aquamation should consult with their bishop or local leaders for spiritual guidance.

Typical Funeral Order of Service

The order of a Mormon funeral may vary slightly by region, but typically follows a structured and sacred format. This helps maintain a respectful and uplifting tone throughout the event.

A standard service might include:

• Opening hymn – A congregational or choir performance of a well-loved LDS hymn
• Opening prayer – Given by a family member or church member
• Talks or eulogies – Remarks from loved ones, focusing on character, family, and faith
• Musical number – Optional solo or choir piece
• Spiritual address – A message from the bishop on doctrines of the resurrection and eternal families
• Closing hymn and prayer – Bringing the ceremony to a peaceful conclusion
• Benediction and recessional – Family and close friends may accompany the casket to the graveside

Ward members often provide a meal or refreshments after the funeral, fostering connection and support.

What to Wear to a Mormon Funeral

Modesty and simplicity guide the dress code for Mormon funerals. Attendees are expected to dress conservatively and respectfully, avoiding bright colors or flashy accessories.

Here are general clothing guidelines:

• Men: A suit or dark slacks with a white shirt and tie is standard. Jackets are not required but are appropriate.
• Women: Modest dresses or blouses with skirts or slacks are recommended. Dresses should have sleeves and fall at or below the knee.
• Children: Should be dressed modestly, avoiding casual or brightly colored clothes.
• Non-members: Are welcome to attend and should follow the same modest, respectful dress standards, even if they are unfamiliar with Mormon customs.

If attending a graveside or viewing, similar attire should be worn. In some rural communities, slightly more relaxed but still respectful clothing may be acceptable.

See more on what to wear to a funeral

Support for the Bereaved

The LDS community plays an active role in supporting grieving families. Church leaders, neighbors, and Relief Society members (the women’s organization) often organize meals, offer spiritual guidance, and provide emotional care in the weeks following a death.

Support options include:

• Ward-based meal trains and visits
• Grief counseling through LDS Family Services or referrals
• Ministering visits by assigned church members to provide ongoing comfort
• Assistance with funeral arrangements and logistics
• Spiritual encouragement through prayer and scripture

Families are encouraged to reach out to their local ward for help with anything from planning logistics to emotional support.

Practical Considerations and Customs in LDS Funerals

Here are some additional guidelines and helpful facts about the practical aspects of Mormon funerals, especially for non-members or first-time attendees:

• No crosses or candles: The Church does not use crosses or religious symbols in décor. The chapel will be simple and focused on the teachings of Christ.
• Flowers: Floral tributes are acceptable and often present, though they tend to be modest rather than extravagant.
• Photographs and memory tables: These are welcome, particularly during viewings or receptions, as long as they are tasteful and respectful.
• Cost: LDS chapels are provided at no cost for funerals, though families still cover expenses for funeral homes, embalming, transportation, and cemetery costs.
• Technology use: Livestreams, especially for out-of-town relatives, are common and often organized by the ward tech team.

Additional Observations and Guidance

This section includes additional cultural, logistical, and spiritual considerations that may help when planning or attending a Mormon funeral.

Broader Insights into LDS Funeral Practices:

• Respect for the body is central: Whether buried or cremated, the body is treated with care and reverence. It is considered a gift from God.
• No sacraments or ritual communion: Unlike Catholic or Orthodox funerals, LDS services do not involve Eucharist or other sacramental rituals.
• Temple garments: If the deceased was endowed in the temple, they may be dressed in white temple clothing by family or funeral home staff familiar with LDS practices.
• Receptions may be held afterward: Many wards provide a simple luncheon or gathering for family and friends after the burial service.
• Grave dedications: A unique tradition in LDS funerals, this prayer at the graveside is given by a priesthood holder to dedicate the final resting place as sacred ground.

Common Questions About Mormon Funerals