Worldview Communication by Ritual Counsellors. An Explorative Multiple Case Study on Funeral Rituals

Abstract

This contribution explores the question how ritual counsellors shape their hermeneutical-communicative role and how they use worldview communication in the preparation and performance of a funeral. Data were collected from a group of six ritual counsellors with a questionnaire and a group interview. The data were interpreted through the lens of three hermeneutical models. I come to the conclusion that respondents are aware of worldview aspects of their work, while they differ in the role they take. Some are more guides, others more witnesses. The role of priestess which some of the counsellors adopt deviates from the available professional theory. More reflection is needed to develop such a theory about worldview communication outside the church.

Keywords

• worldview communication
• ritual counsellors
• hermeneutics
• secular funerals