Religious Rituals and Rites Associated with Death and Dying
Catholics believe that Baptism is absolutely necessary for salvation. If an adult, child, or newborn is in danger of dying and they have not previously been baptized then they must be baptized immediately. Anyone can baptize the person if they know how but, it is preferred that it be a priest, or a Catholic physician or nurse.
A Catholic that is in danger of dying will probably wish to have a priest hear their confession. This sacrament use to be called Penance but is now referred to Reconciliation. The patient may also want to receive Communion, which to the Catholic is receiving the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ from bread and wine that has been consecrated by a priest. And finally the patient will receive the sacrament called, Anointing of the Sick. This last anointing fortifies the end of earthly life like a solid defense for the final battle before entering paradise.
Protestantism
Episcopalians share some beliefs common to Catholicism. They believe in Baptism, Confession, Communion and Holy Unction or anointing for the sick. They believe in heaven and hell but do not believe heaven or hell exist as a place.
Methodists accept baptism of all other denominations. Baptism may be by sprinkling or immersion of a person at any age. They do not believe in saints or in purgatory.
Lutherans practice Baptism and Communion and they regard Christ as both God and man and they believe in the Trinity.
Presbyterians also practice Baptism and Communion. They believe in heaven and hell and they emphasize the sovereignty of one God in three persons.
Baptists emphasize that Christ heads the church. They restrict baptism to those old enough to understand its meaning and use total immersion. Communion is a remembrance of Christ's death.
Other Christian Denominations
Jehovah's Witnesses beliefs come from the bible. Their beliefs prevent them from receiving whole blood, blood plasma, or any blood derivatives.
Quakers have no ministers. Spiritual needs are met through members of the meeting. They have individual interpretations and practices.
Christian Scientists believes in spiritual healing. These patients are usually cared for in their own homes. A Christian Science practitioner is usually contacted if a Christian Scientist is admitted to the hospital.
Mormons practice the rites of baptism and the Lord's Supper. They do not believe in infant baptism or deathbed repentance but do believe in anointing the patient with olive oil before performing procedures and asking a blessing for the personnel performing them.
Judaism is based on
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