How would you handle this situation based on your beliefs and societal norms?

I would say "I'm sorry for your loss" and not get into theological differences. I'd talk about the dead guy himself and if his widow said, "Well he was 'saved' so he must be with God now" I'd just nod respectfully and tell her to call me if she needed anything.

The only one that can ease that pain is the Great Comforter, the Holy Spirit. I as a Christian would say "may the Holy Spirit comfort you at a time like this" but if I were of another belief, I would simply pay my respects and say " I am sorry for your loss".

Depends on the family you are attempting to comfort. Some people only want:

a) to be left alone

b) to have someone to talk to

c) to have someone make some basic decisions for them - so they can properly grieve their loved one (only for immediate family!)

d) to have someone make sense of the situation - which can often only be "It was his time and he is now with God" or "Our God is not the God of the dead, but of the living - you will see your husband/father again soon"

Or the better option - provided it is wanted:

e) Be Helpful - provide prepared food, groceries, offer to pick the kids up from school.... basically ease their usual burdens while they are going through this tragedy. This is true Christian love - bearing one another's burdens and co-suffering with your brothers and sisters in Christ.

Talk is cheap, so are cards - help (only if _wanted_ by the grieving) - is the way to go!

You don't get invited to a funeral,not in London anyway. I would go along to pay my respects. Just being there with a sympathetic ear will help the grieving family, telling them your sorry for their loss and you're there to help in any way you can will be comfroting too.

G The pain is not determined by religion. Just be a sincere friend and be open to how they feel.

I would bring flowers to his funeral. I might write a personal card to the family saying that he was a really nice person and that it was wonderful to have known him. People are irreplaceable.

The best thing to do is to be there for them, but let them talk. It's better to be quiet and not say anything unless they ask. Don't say, "you need to try and..." Just be there and love them and do what you can. Mourn with them. Cry with them.

I typically say something like, "I'm so sorry for your loss. If I can do something for you, please let me know."

And I mean it.

If they want to talk about God and Heaven, I listen politely and understand that it is their way of coping.

i would offer my condolences and my availability for comfort and/or company