I have offered a couple of times that I have been fortunate through the years to work with funeral directors who are decent, client-focussed, and hard-working. There are many demands in ministry, but I wouldn't trade my job for theirs.
That said, I am aware that the funeral industry has come to shape funeral practices, especially in locales such as Southern Ontario. Most funerals are held in funeral "chapels" (interesting name don't you think?) rather than churches. During my years in Halifax I had only one funeral away from the church but here it is almost a given.
And the provision of various practical aspects of the funeral process rests almost entirely with the funeral homes or chapels. I was intrigued to see that Walmart is now selling caskets in its bid to take over the retail world. The casket in the Walmart ad above is called the "Mom Remembered" at about $900 dollars. That is really inexpensive, and even their priciest model comes in at about three times that amount. Still a, well, a bargain. My sense is that lots of people make their decisions about things like the casket based on emotion rather than cost. Who wants to "cheap out" on dear old mom or dad? But there is no denying that funerals can be really expensive and the source of tension in families.
What is your reaction to Walmart's venture into the realm of funeral supplies? Stick to the flat screen TV's and groceries? Or do you figure this makes sense?
You just never know what you will read about on this blog!
Never shop at Walmart!! On the one hand cheaper coffins is a good idea but not from Walmart, on the other hand the whole funeral business needs a shake up so this might do it. They are cheaper and more environmentally ways of doing a funeral, a bit of research is needed. Enjoy your blogs,any and all topics.
ReplyDeleteI can't fit one more thing in the garage.
ReplyDeleteInteresting that a couple of other readers spoke to me and agree with the "never shop at Walmart" comment. Now if Zeller's sold caskets...
ReplyDeleteAnd just imagine the chatter amongst the neighbours pupil. We may chuckle, but my neighbour (two doors over)in Newfoundland did have a casket in his storage shed. He had been the merchant in the outport where we lived for many years and bought his bronze casket when he was the supplier for just about everything in the community. Got it wholesale. Edison Green was his name.