Okene Anglican Diocese sets two-week waiting period for burials
The Diocese of Okene, part of the Church of Nigeria (Anglican Communion), has issued new guidelines regarding funeral practices for its members. In a communiqué released following the first session of the sixth Synod, the diocese has instructed families to wait at least two weeks before conducting burial ceremonies.
The Synod took place from August 7 to 9 at St. Paul’s Anglican Church in Obeiba, Ihima. The communiqué was signed by Bishop Dr. Emmanuel Onsachi and Clerical Synod Secretary Venerable Godwin Omanayin.
The diocese stated that the two-week waiting period is intended to allow families sufficient time to prepare for a respectful burial. The Synod emphasized that a minimum of two weeks should be permitted for burial preparations, and assured families that keeping the deceased in a morgue during this time would not pose any spiritual risks.
“Even if a deceased person expressed a desire for a quick burial, families should adhere to the diocesan policy of a two-week wait,” the communiqué noted.
In addition, the Synod announced a ban on the use of external funeral service providers. Instead, parishes are directed to rely on their Boys Brigade members for burial-related duties, in an effort to maintain church-focused practices.
The Synod also addressed tithes, urging members residing abroad to contribute at least 50 percent of their annual tithes to their home congregations. This directive is designed to encourage voluntary compliance among parishioners.
Furthermore, the diocese called for an increase in evangelism efforts to attract new members and designated the third Sunday of each month as Youth Sunday, aiming to enhance the involvement of young people in church activities.
These resolutions, dated August 12, 2026, are set for implementation across the Diocese of Okene.
