Mennonite Funeral Traditions: What to Expect

Mennonites are a varied Christian group, and so are their funerals. This guide is for guests, friends, coworkers, and professionals, and for families planning a service. It describes common practice, not a rule for every congregation.

Who is this guide about?

Mennonites are Christians in the Anabaptist tradition, known for pacifism and a commitment to simplicity. Their practice varies by church. FuneralWise describes a range from the very conservative Old Order, whose lifestyle is somewhat similar to the Amish, to moderate Mennonites who are practically indistinguishable from other Protestants. In a mainstream Mennonite congregation, a funeral may look nearly identical to a more familiar Protestant funeral. This guide covers that wide range. For the Amish, see Amish Funeral Traditions.

What do Mennonites believe about death?

The Mennonite Church’s own FAQ says Mennonites believe people are created in the image of God and that life is precious, that God remains faithful through death, and that there is eternal life with God. Death, it says, is not something to be feared. There are no specific death or burial rituals that Mennonites follow, but many try to practice simplicity in style and cost, even with funerals. A Mennonite pastors’ journal adds that Christian funerals are worship services, and that funeral practices can make room for lament as well as hope.

What might I see at the service?

In more modern Mennonite groups, the Mennonite Church’s glossary says a funeral or memorial service is usually held in the church. A meditation full of hope and instruction for the living is given, and there is a lot of singing about the comfort and joy of the next world. Caskets tend to be simple but not homemade, burial most often takes place in a cemetery next to the church, and flowers are permitted. Many families plan a personal, creative service instead of following a traditional form. Memorial services after a burial or cremation are common.

In Old Order communities, the practices are plainer. FuneralWise says Old Order Mennonites tend toward very simple arrangements, while mainstream Mennonites use the same funeral homes and cemetery services as others. It describes visitation one or two days before the funeral, services at the home, church, or funeral home, and clergy that may include bishops, elders, and ministers. A funeral often follows about three days after the death, and a procession goes to the cemetery.

How can I be a good guest?

Ask a member of the congregation what to expect, because practice depends on the church. Expect hymns, and join in if you wish. In mainstream churches, flowers are permitted and the setting will feel familiar to most Protestants. In Old Order communities, expect simplicity and follow the community’s lead on dress and conduct. Offering practical help, such as food or childcare, is often welcome, because mutual aid is part of Mennonite life.

What should families planning a service think about?

Talk to your pastor early. Many Mennonites choose a simple service and a modest, low-cost arrangement, and some choose cremation followed by a memorial service. Can You Have a Funeral Without a Funeral Home? and Christian Views on Cremation can help you weigh the options. If the family belongs to an Old Order group, ask the community what it expects before you call a funeral home.

What doesn’t this guide cover?

• Differences between Mennonite conferences and communities, which are large, including language, singing, and dress
• Other Anabaptist groups, such as the Brethren and Hutterites
• Theology and worship, which belong to each congregation
• Review by the community. This guide needs review by Mennonite pastors and church members before it is promoted widely

Practices vary widely by community, family, and faith. This is general information, not religious or legal advice and not a substitute for the family’s own guidance. It has not yet been reviewed by members of the Mennonite community.