THE FUNERAL RITUAL

Funerals are an important part of the healing process after someone we have loved passes away:

Ø  The Funeral is a time to remember.

Ø  The Funeral helps us to come to terms with the fact that the death has occurred.

Ø  The Funeral is a time for family, friends and community to provide support.

Ø  The Funeral is the time to say goodbye.

The Funeral Ritual is comprised of four components that assists families to accomplish the above points.  These are:

´       The Visitation:  Spending time with your loved one who has passed away is a time for family, friends and the community to see your loved one, one last time and to assist them with coming to terms with the reality of the death.  The casket can be open or closed during the visitation as a personal or cultural choice.

´       The Service:  The service is period for personal reflection and can be with or without religious notations.  At this time, the ‘Eulogy’ 'Tribute' or ‘Remembrance’, a personal reflection by one or several people on the life of your loved one, takes place.  The Service can be held in the funeral home, in a place of worship or any other location the family desires.

´       The Procession: The Funeral procession is the orderly and dignified transportation of your loved one to their final place of rest.  It is generally led by the clergy, followed by the funeral coach which carries the casket, family, pall-bearers and other guests follow the funeral coach.

´       To Committal: Also known as the ‘Interment’, ‘Entombment’ or ‘Graveside Service’, the committal is the final act of remembrance and in most cases is held in a cemetery.  There are times when this service is held at the place of worship.

´       The Gathering:  Following the Committal service, family and friends meet together for a time of fellowship and refreshment.  This time is sometimes called the ‘Reception’.  It can take place anywhere the family desires.  The Gathering is now generally held in a church hall or a community centre and is an integral part of the healing process.

Burial or Cremation?

´       The Funeral Director will ask you which method of care you choose for your loved one.  This is a personal decision which may be based on a religious or cultural basis.  Whatever your preference, we encourage you to consider each of the 5 components of the Funeral Ritual.  These are an integral part of the healing process.

Caskets:

´       Webster’s defines a casket as a small box or chest for valuables.  There is nothing more valuable than your loved one.  The casket is the final resting place and a means of shelter from the elements for your loved one.  To see samples of caskets, click on the Caskets and Vaults link on the left side of this page.