Hermeneutiek en dodenliturgie met en zonder kerk

Abstract

In his contribution the author is in search for a hermeneutic understanding of death rituals at the edge of or outside the church. Departing from a definition of liturgy from a hermeneutical perspective he investigates the liturgical practice and theory. Leaning on empirical data he discovers three models of approaching bereaved persons by priests in construing liturgy. Two of the models fit the definition. Reflecting on recent literature on ritual design outside the church he points to the limitations of the definition, widens it and develops a new model which is starting point for future reflection.