Understandably, you may feel uncomfortable at an end-of-life event if you have never attended one. For that reason, let’s discuss what to expect at a funeral visitation vs a funeral. While both are important aspects of the mourning process, they have distinct characteristics. Here’s a comparison of what to expect at each type of funeral service.
Key Differences Between a Visitation and a Funeral Service
- Funerals are more formal and structured, while visitations are more casual and flexible.
- Visitations focus on offering condolences and sharing memories, while funerals are centered on a formal farewell and honoring the deceased.
- Funerals include a structured service with readings and eulogies, while visitations are more about social interaction and support.
What to Expect at a Funeral Visitation
A funeral visitation allows friends and family to offer condolences and support to the bereaved and allows people to pay their respects to the deceased. Typically, visitations are similar to open houses, where attendees come and go as they please within the scheduled hours. Sometimes, they may be held a day (or days) before the funeral. Visitations can also be scheduled a few hours before the funeral service. Dress is typically semi-formal to casual, with an emphasis on respectful attire.
Sometimes, the deceased’s body is present at a visitation, which is why they are sometimes called a funeral viewing. There may be an open casket, enabling attendees to see the body. However, sometimes the casket is closed. If the body was cremated before the gathering, you may see a funeral urn that holds the cremated remains.
Besides seeing the casket or urn, you may also see photos, videos, and mementos of the deceased. Often, the family of the deceased will display these images and objects as a way to share fond memories.
Attendees may sign a guest book and bring sympathy cards. Typically, those attending will stand in line to greet the immediate family members. During this brief interaction, you may share a message of sympathy or a few favorite stories about the deceased if time allows.
Visitation etiquette
Do you need help with how to act at a visitation? There’s no one set of funeral viewing etiquette rules. It varies by community and religion. After all, a traditional Irish wake may look like a big party, while other gatherings may be extremely solemn affairs.
Follow the cues set by the deceased’s family. If they share happy, funny memories of the deceased, you can, too. However, if the occasion is more somber and formal, stand quietly nearby as you wait your turn to express sympathy.
What to Expect at a Funeral Service
While there may be a formal prayer or brief comments at a visitation, expect a formal ceremony at a funeral service. A funeral is a more structured environment for mourning and reflection. Funeral services are usually held a few days to a week after the death and can last from 30 minutes to an hour or more. They are often held at a funeral home, place of worship, or graveside. Dress is typically more formal than what one would wear to a visitation, with dark or subdued colors preferred.
Sometimes, you’ll see the body present at a funeral service. (Traditionally, a memorial service is the name of a funeral service that occurs with cremated remains or no remains present.)
Funeral services are held at a specific time. It’s best to arrive on time for such events. Expect a structured program with a particular order of service, including readings, hymns, eulogies, and possibly a sermon or homily.
You may or may not have the opportunity to speak to a family member at a funeral service. A reception or gathering may follow the funeral, allowing you to interact with family or friends. Otherwise, attend with silent respect.
Funeral etiquette
Funeral or memorial service etiquette also depends on the community and family. However, they tend to be more solemn affairs than visitations, especially if it is a religious service. Arrive on time and turn your cell phone off.
Are you the family of the deceased and worried about specific funeral etiquette protocols? Alabama Funeral Home & Cremation Centers can answer any funeral or wake etiquette questions and give you funeral or visitation tips. Contact us today if you recently lost a loved one and need guidance on saying your final goodbyes.
