Guyanese Mourning

I spent most of today with a lovely Guyanese family as they prepare for the funeral of a devoted husband and father. Their tradition of mourning is different from what I am used to. One thing I have learned in the past few years is that it is best to explain one's ignorance instead of trying to, "fake it til you make it"

So after explaining this morning that I didn't know what to expect here is what I have learned. The family gathers every night from the time of death until the funeral for a informal service of remembrance and music. In this case that means a weeks worth of gathering (it reminds me a sitting shiva).

When I went tonight people who had been prepared to speak immediately deferred to me and asked when I would like to start the service (I explained I was just there to watch and learn tonight). A very traditional group of people with a level of respect for the position of Pastor that is rare now a days.

Here is what is expected of me. I will be leading the gathering on Thursday at the home, Funeral on Friday, 2nd Funeral on Saturday. Then I will travel to the crematorium where the family will be present for the cremation. This is a first for me. Then we will all gather together for food at a local church.

I love this family very much and I am sad that they have lost their father/husband. As a Pastor I am incredibly proud of this families faithfulness and adherence to a tradition that puts their faith at the center of this life event. I only hope that I can properly pay homage to this wonderful man and his big faith in the coming days.