Christian funerals in Singapore follow Protestant or Catholic traditions, emphasising faith in the resurrection and eternal life. Services are generally more structured and simpler than Chinese traditional funerals, led by clergy (pastor, minister, or priest), with a focus on scripture, prayer, and worship. This guide covers everything you need to know about attending or arranging a Christian funeral in Singapore.
Types of Christian Funerals in Singapore
Protestant Funerals
Protestant denominations in Singapore include Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, Anglican, and independent churches. Protestant funerals focus on scripture, prayer, and worship songs about eternal life. There is more flexibility in tailoring the service order compared to Catholic funerals.
Roman Catholic Funerals
Catholic funerals involve a priest leading prayers, hymns, the Rosary, and a Requiem Mass. The liturgy is more structured. Burial was traditionally preferred, but cremation is now permitted under Church guidelines (with conditions regarding the treatment of ashes).
The Wake
Duration
Christian wakes in Singapore typically last 1 to 3 days, though some extend to 5 days. This is generally shorter than Buddhist or Taoist wakes.
Location
Wakes may be held at:
- Funeral parlours (climate-controlled, private)
- Church halls (familiar setting for the faith community)
- Family homes
- HDB void decks (with Town Council permits)
Activities During the Wake
- Viewing of the deceased (open or closed casket)
- Signing a condolence book
- Candle lighting
- Evening prayer services or devotional sessions led by pastors
- Singing of hymns and sharing of memories
- Reading of Psalms and scripture passages
Christian wakes do not include non-Christian rituals such as incense burning, joss paper, or ancestral offerings.
The Funeral Service
The formal funeral service is held on the final day, typically at the church the deceased attended. The service usually lasts 1 to 2 hours.
Order of Service
A typical Christian funeral service follows this order:
- Arrival of the casket (if not already at the church)
- Call to Worship / Opening Prayer by the pastor or minister
- Hymns (congregational singing)
- Scripture Readings (Old and New Testament passages)
- Sermon / Message by the pastor, focusing on hope, resurrection, and comfort
- Eulogies / Tributes by family members or close friends
- Prayers of Commendation (committing the soul to God)
- Closing Hymn
- Benediction
Catholic funerals may include a Requiem Mass with Holy Communion before the committal.
Services can be personalised with video montages, photo displays, or a special prayer.
Commonly Sung Hymns
- "Amazing Grace"
- "The Lord Is My Shepherd" (Psalm 23)
- "How Great Thou Art"
- "It Is Well with My Soul"
- "Abide with Me"
- "Rock of Ages"
- "Blessed Assurance"
- "In the Garden"
Contemporary worship songs are also acceptable in Protestant services. Hymn selection should consider the personality of the deceased, the church's practices, the language of the congregation, and the desired tone.
Common Scripture Readings
- Psalm 23: "The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want"
- John 14:1-3: "In my Father's house are many rooms" (the promise of eternal life)
- 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18: Hope for the resurrection
- Romans 8:38-39: "Nothing can separate us from the love of God"
- Revelation 21:4: "He will wipe away every tear from their eyes"
Catholic-Specific Customs
Roman Catholic funerals include additional elements not found in Protestant services:
Nightly Rosary
During the wake, the Rosary is led by a priest, deacon, or family member each night. This is a distinctive feature of Catholic wakes.
Requiem Mass
On the final day, a Requiem Mass is held at the church. This includes:
- Full Mass liturgy with Holy Communion
- Sprinkling of the coffin with holy water
- Incense (liturgical, not the same as Chinese funeral incense)
Rite of Committal
The final rite is performed at the graveside or crematorium, committing the soul to God.
Catholic Position on Cremation
The Catholic Church permits cremation (officially since 1963) but with specific conditions:
- The Requiem Mass should be held before cremation
- Ashes must be kept in a sacred place (columbarium or cemetery)
- Ashes should not be scattered, divided among family members, or kept at home
- The purpose is to treat the remains with reverence and maintain a place for prayer and remembrance
Dress Code
What to Wear
- Black or dark, subdued colours are traditional and expected
- Modest, respectful attire is essential
- Black is not strictly mandatory; neutral or muted tones (navy, dark grey, charcoal) are acceptable
- Avoid bright colours and flashy accessories
- Men: dark suit or smart casual with dark colours
- Women: knee-length dress or modest outfit in dark colours
What to Avoid
- Bright or vibrant colours
- Overly casual clothing (shorts, slippers)
- Flashy jewellery or accessories
Condolence Etiquette
At the Wake
- Approach the family to offer verbal condolences
- Sign the condolence book
- Participate in prayers and hymns as a sign of respect, even if you are not Christian
- You do not need to recite prayers you are unfamiliar with; simply standing respectfully is sufficient
Condolence Gifts
- Flowers: Sending condolence wreaths or flower arrangements is appropriate. Lilies, white roses, and chrysanthemums are common choices. Cross-shaped wreaths are meaningful for Christian funerals.
- Cash donations: White envelopes ("pek kim") are also commonly given in Singapore to help with funeral costs
- Some families prefer charitable donations in lieu of flowers
For detailed flower guidance, see our guide to funeral flower etiquette.
Burial vs Cremation
Protestant Churches
Generally neutral on the burial vs cremation question. Both are widely accepted, and the family's preference is respected.
Roman Catholic Church
Burial has been the traditional preference, but cremation is permitted (since 1963). The key condition is that ashes must be kept in a sacred place and not scattered or divided.
Practical Considerations in Singapore
Cremation is more common due to land scarcity. Government cremation at Mandai costs $100. Burial at Choa Chu Kang Cemetery costs $940 for Christian burials, with a 15-year lease and mandatory exhumation.
For a detailed comparison, see our guide to burial vs cremation in Singapore.
Memorial Services
Some Christian families hold additional memorial observances:
- Separate memorial or thanksgiving service: Held weeks or months after the funeral, including hymns, scripture, sharing of memories, and a meal
- Annual remembrance: On the anniversary of the death
- Bereavement support groups: Some churches offer ongoing support for grieving members
Estimated Costs
- Christian funeral (2-3 day wake): $4,000 - $7,000
- Catholic funeral: $4,500 - $8,000 (slightly higher due to Requiem Mass and additional clergy involvement)
For a full cost comparison, see our guide to funeral costs in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear to a Christian funeral in Singapore?
Black or dark colours are traditional. Dress modestly and respectfully. Neutral or muted tones are also acceptable. Avoid bright colours and casual clothing.
Do I need to participate in prayers if I am not Christian?
Participation is appreciated but not required. You can simply stand respectfully during prayers and sit quietly during hymns. The family will understand.
Is cremation allowed for Catholics?
Yes, since 1963. However, the Catholic Church requires that ashes be kept in a sacred place (columbarium or cemetery) and not scattered, divided, or kept at home.
Can Christian funerals be held at HDB void decks?
Yes. Christian funerals can be held at HDB void decks with the appropriate Town Council permit. The setup is simpler than Chinese traditional funerals, typically with a cross, flowers, and a casket.
What is the difference between a wake and a funeral service?
The wake is the multi-day visitation period where family and friends come to pay respects, pray, and share memories. The funeral service is the formal ceremony held on the final day, typically at a church, with a structured order of worship.
Should I give flowers or money?
Both are appropriate in Singapore. Condolence flower stands or wreaths are delivered to the wake venue. Cash donations in white envelopes help the family with funeral costs. Some families may indicate a preference for charitable donations.
How long does a Christian funeral service last?
The formal funeral service typically lasts 1 to 2 hours. The wake period before the service is usually 1 to 3 days.
What hymns are commonly sung at Christian funerals?
Popular choices include "Amazing Grace," "The Lord Is My Shepherd" (Psalm 23), "How Great Thou Art," "It Is Well with My Soul," "Abide with Me," and "Rock of Ages." Contemporary worship songs may also be included.