One of the unhealthy trends that pastors are noticing today is the secularization of life transitions. Pastors are less frequently asked to perform weddings. Baptism (or in some traditions dedication) of infant children is neglected. And funerals are skipped or turned into something that is a weak combo of a party and a memory session. These are not good developments. They both express and accelerate the separation of our culture from its spiritual roots.
Here is an excellent reflection written concerning the lack of proper religious funerals. Corresponding articles could be written regarding other big life moments where previously our culture and others have for good reason paused to remember the sacred.
http://www.spectator.co.uk/2016/05/proper-religious-funerals-are-dying-out-i-mourn-for-them/
