Laying a body in state within the church is not an honor reserved for a select few. Any member of the Orthodox Church who is in good standing with their Faith can be laid out in our temple; in fact, I would even encourage it! Not only is this far more in keeping with the historical tradition of the Ancient Church, but the prayerful atmosphere of these surroundings is conducive to assuaging grief and offering comfort to the bereaved. The soul of the deceased loved one would, obviously feel greater peace at being in the House of God, also.