What traditional element is often omitted in the funeral services of the Church of Christ, Scientist?

The traditional element that is often omitted in the funeral services of the Church of Christ, Scientist is the funeral service in church. This reflects the beliefs and practices of the Church, which emphasizes the spiritual aspect of life and death rather than the ritualistic or physical aspects of funerals commonly seen in many other Christian denominations.

In the Church of Christ, Scientist, much of the focus is on the spiritual understanding of existence and the belief in the continuity of life beyond physical death. Services are typically held in a more personal or private setting, such as at a home or a funeral home, rather than in a church building. This aligns with their teaching that emphasizes healing and spiritual enlightenment over formal rites.

Understanding this context allows one to appreciate how the Church of Christ, Scientist integrates its beliefs into its practices, distinguishing it from more traditional religious funeral rites that commonly occur in church settings.