What usually goes into a funeral or memorial service in Theravada Buddhism?
Would it be inappropriate to ask bhikkhus ( Sri Lankans ) to chant in English?
A friend who led a sutta class at a vihara for many years has passed away.
The class was directly affiliated with the vihara, they just let us ( mostly Americans ) use the space.
One of the long time participants was a bhikkhu for a limited period of time( American ). He is also very involved with the vihara. The vihara for many years allowed to him lead weekend meditation sessions and dhamma talks ā directly affiliated with the vihara.
We are a planning a Zoom memorial for our friend ( pandemic, cold weather ) and are trying to plan out what to do.
He said he could get the vihara bhikkhus involved. What would they do? What would they expect of us ( donations, etc )?
My friend also offered to do a dhamma talk which I think is a great idea. I am concerned about potential subjects.
Years ago when my last parent died I took it hard.
The tone around that group and the vihara was roughly āthere is no comforting things to say. Suck it up and reapply yourself to the practiceā.
I did not find that helpful at the time.
It seems consistent with the suttas though.
Iām completely over the mustard seed story.
I would like something from the Buddhas teachings that would be comforting, useful, and down to Earth.
I have no idea what that would be or if there is such a selection in Theravada.
Suggestions for that dhamma talk would be very welcome.
We are planning a sharing time for people to speak and pay their last respects
Thanks for any ideas or information