RANGSIT CREMATORIUM AND COLUMBARIUM

Rev Clarence Lee, MMS Missionary in Rangsit, Thailand.

It opens the doors for those, who would usually not enter a church, to come and hear the gospel.

A ministry to the grieving

From the start, the Rangsit Crematorium and Columbarium has been regarded as a ministry to the grieving, and not just a business project. It opens doors for those, who would usually not enter a church, to come and hear the gospel. It also offers those who grieve over the loss of loved ones, whether it be Thais or foreigners who reside here, a chance to hear of the hope we have in Christ. Thus, the funeral team at Rangsit is committed to comfort and provide good closure for families when death occurs. This means going the extra mile regardless of whether our physical facilities are needed. Hence, besides cremation, we also serve with land burials, sea burials, and funerals at other sites (such as temples) as well. These have all become a part of our regular routine.

A ministry to the grieving.

Caring for the corpse.

A prominent landmark

After 10 years in this ministry, we realise that the premises and the church have become a prominent landmark to the community and beyond. For instance, when we went into some of the villages to invite children to join the Boys Brigade activities at our church, many villagers immediately knew where we were when we mentioned “crematorium”. When we were looking for a possible swimming pool to do baptisms in, we met up with a manager of a nearby condominium. When we mentioned “crematorium”, he immediately knew what church we were referring to. “I’ve been there too,” he added, “when my friend passed away.” When a sister-in-Christ in Bangkok lost a loved one recently, and her pastor was unable to refer her to a Christian crematorium, it was the medical worker at the hospital who told her about our place. That brought her great relief.

Entrance to the columbarium.

Family and friends offering flowers as a monk looks on.

An unexpected blessing

This same sister-in-Christ was so grateful to God to have found our place, that she asked if she could donate a new signboard for us. She had keenly observed that our single, weather-beaten, vinyl banner indicating the church and crematorium at the entrance, is much too unbefitting of the beauty and services provided within. I explained to her that we initially had another metal-plated signboard, but it was recently stolen. It puzzled us how much the thief could get by selling that metal plate. But as we all know, these are tough times for everyone. Hence, when she brought up the proposal, I exclaimed that it would be a timely blessing indeed.

Ps Surachai leading a funeral rite.

Family and friends offering flowers during a cremation service.

Self-sustainability

The services of the crematorium and columbarium also allow the church and her various ministries to be financially self-sustainable. Income from our bereavement services provides for 10 staff members and their families, including the local pastor. It also supports a member, who is currently undergoing theological education, and his family as well. Together with funds collected from our members’ tithes and offerings, the church is able to finance all of her ministry programmes, and also give out relief packages to members affected by the recent COVID-19 crisis.

Looking forward, we anticipate the setting up of a nanophonics entity at the premises, so that the church and crematorium can continue to be a blessing to the wider Methodist church here in Thailand. To God be all glory!

Conducting a wake at the temple.

Our wonderful funeral worship team.