The funeral of former President Carter took place in his hometown of Plains, Georgia, on Thursday evening at the Maranatha Baptist Church, where he was laid to rest beside his late wife, Rosalynn Carter, in the presence of family and his pastor.
The small church provided a stark contrast to the grandeur of the state funeral held earlier that day at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. President Carter’s personal pastor, Tony Lowden, emphasized his deep Christian faith, repeatedly highlighting his commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Pastor Lowden urged church members to ask themselves and others the questions that Carter always asked: “Where have you been? What have you done? Who have you helped? And how can I help you?” reports VOA.
The pastor also expressed gratitude to the nurses who cared for former President Carter and others who stood by him throughout his life.
The former president’s coffin was carried from the church accompanied by Christian hymns, including “It Is Well With My Soul” and “Old Rugged Cross.”