Understanding the Elements of a Traditional Funeral Service
When planning a funeral service, the event generally follows an outline. This is an order of service that includes some of the most traditional funeral elements.
A funeral outline is used when families want a traditional funeral service, and the funeral home offers a set time for each element to take place. To understand how the funeral outline makes the funeral service run smoothly, you need to understand more about it.
1. A Welcoming
The welcoming consists of a speech and is usually done by a preacher or a family member designated by the family to speak. The welcoming may include a few remarks about the deceased and discuss why everyone is gathered at that time.
Examples are to say goodbye or to celebrate the life of the deceased. These opening remarks set the tone for the entire service. The opening remarks are not part of the eulogy.
2. The Reading of Scripture
The second element of the service is a reading of scripture. Certain verses from the Bible that resonant with the family or deceased are read aloud. Families have a choice in scriptures and who reads them. The scripture is used as a way to comfort the loved ones and friends gathered to pay their last respects to the deceased.
3. Giving the Eulogy
A person close to the deceased and knows a great deal about the person and his or her life usually writes and delivers the eulogy. This is a speech that highlights the deceased's life. During the reading, the person eulogizing puts emphasis on the deceased qualities and way of life in such a way that it comforts the family and friends.
4. Memorial Activity
The memorial activity is planned by the family. It could be something as simple as a group prayer or a slide-show highlighting the deceased's life. Some families choose to sing a specific song, or just play a favorite song of the deceased. Another common activity includes the speaker asking for those attending to volunteer to stand and share a story of the deceased. This activity allows family and friends to share special memories to console one another.
5. Closing
The closing consists of reading more scripture or a poem as a final reading. Families select the closing reading, so it can be anything they feel wraps up the service well. After the closing, either the speaker or a family member thanks family and friends for attending and joining them on this important day.
While traditional funerals usually follow this or a similar outline, families are not forced to stay right on schedule. Most funeral services allow customizations to make the day special and unique.
If you are in the need of funeral services or want to find out more, contact a funeral home such as Union Funeral Home-Lytwyn & Lytwyn.
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