How does a pastor conduct the funeral of someone he did not know?

I am preaching a funeral today. It is someone I did not know. I have no idea what her spiritual condition was. A local funeral home contacted me and asked if I could help. I have probably done a 100 of these types of funerals in the last 10 years. How does a pastor know what to do and say for a funeral service like this? These 4 elements below can and should be applied in both this scenario, as well as the funeral of one of your most faithful church members.... Read more