Paying tribute to the life of a loved one generally includes a public or private service of some type. Here are some explanations and suggestions to help you if you are planning or attending a service for a deceased loved one.
In any situation, the process of saying goodbye is never an easy one, and when that situation involves the death of a loved one, it is even more difficult. However, creating a meaningful funeral can make a great difference in how the friends and family of the deceased say their goodbyes.
A meaningful funeral channels grief into something tangible and memorable and can help transform it into love, understanding, and hope. You can use the funeral to explore the meaning of life and the ways that the deceased touched the lives of the people they knew.
That begs the question: what makes a funeral meaningful?
Regardless of the type or style of funeral you intend to have, here are some aspects to keep in mind during the planning stage:
The service
There are three basic types of funeral services: the memorial service, the funeral, and the committal service. A memorial service usually takes place after the deceased has been buried or cremated. A burial service is a traditional service where the body of the loved one is usually present. The committal service usually takes place at the site of the burial of the body or the cremation remains. Accompanying the remains to their final resting place or scattering location, along with some expressive last words, can create the necessary feeling of finality and closure to the entire process.
Pre or post-service event
A visitation is a pre-service event, usually held at the funeral home, for family, friends, and associates to express sympathy to the family of the deceased. A reception is a post-service event, usually held at the family's home, for loved ones to remember the deceased in a more comfortable setting. Paying respect, sharing grief, and exchanging memories can provide comfort to those left behind. A visitation and/or a reception gives time for mourners to share their experiences and offer support.
Music
Music can say many things that words alone cannot. They can evoke memories and emotions that help us process our feelings, regardless of whether they are sad, happy, or bittersweet.
Readings
A reading can speak as to the characteristics and values held by the deceased. Song lyrics, poems, favourite sayings, or religious texts can provide the words that let us contemplate the deceased.
Eulogy
A eulogy by close friends or family members offers a succinct, personal glimpse into the personality of the deceased.
Procession
A procession, with carefully selected pallbearers, can symbolize the shared loss and support through a ceremonial honouring of the loved one.
Other symbols of love
Whether it is a favourite piece of clothing, pictures, medals, flowers, candles, or other symbols can also express feelings of love and grief when words alone are not enough.
Inviting a community to come together during a trying time can help ease the pain of loss. Holding a meaningful funeral can help express the uniqueness of the loved one, create a memorable and shared experience for friends and family, let us reflect on the reason for life, and above all, let us say a formal goodbye. Incorporating these aspects can aid in the creation of a funeral that honours the memory of your loved one with both compassion and honesty.
Hollard Life Assurance Co. Ltd (Reg No 1993/001405/06) is an authorised Financial Services Provider.
