The 15th Asian Liturgy Forum concluded today with a 7-point statement requiring obvious Christian characteristics for any inculturated funeral rite. Liturgists from Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Thailand met for the forum to evaluate inculturation within funeral rites in their respective countries during the event held from October 17 and ending today. A statement issued by the forum said that some 40 participants of the event that it was “pastorally beneficial” to integrate local customs for funerals, including vestments, decorations, songs and symbols. To enhance these inculturation efforts, the forum recommended researching local traditions with the aid of experts in sociology, cultural anthropology, music and theology. The forum also expressed the need for catechesis on Church doctrine concerning death and the afterlife. Another forum has been scheduled for October 15-21 next year in Malaysia.