Funeral Arts National Board Practice Exam

What is the best action for a funeral director when a service is held at an unfamiliar place of worship?

1. Recreate standard procedures from memory

2. Call the officiating person to get specific information about the handling of the service

3. Assume all places of worship have the same rules

4. Visit the place of worship beforehand for a tour

The correct answer is: Call the officiating person to get specific information about the handling of the service

The best action for a funeral director when a service is held at an unfamiliar place of worship is to call the officiating person to get specific information about the handling of the service. This approach ensures that the funeral director obtains accurate and relevant details regarding the customs, protocols, and requirements specific to that place of worship. Each congregation may have its own traditions, rituals, and expectations, and communicating directly with the officiating individual helps to ensure that the service is conducted respectfully and according to their guidelines. By reaching out to the officiant, the director can clarify any questions about the service structure, expected rituals, seating arrangements, and any items that need to be provided or prepared, thereby fostering a collaborative atmosphere and ensuring the family's needs are met in accordance with the place of worship's practices. This proactive communication minimizes the risk of misinterpretation or errors that could arise from assumptions or relying solely on memory. Visiting the place of worship beforehand is also a valid action but may not always be feasible due to time constraints or scheduling issues. However, obtaining direct information from the officiating person is the most effective way to gather the necessary insights needed to facilitate a meaningful service.