There are several ways to pay for funeral services, including a post-service. Often known as an after-care service, a post-funeral service is typically held at a banquet room or a fully catered wake. While most funeral services are free of charge, some are not. Whether you pay for funeral services yourself or hire a funeral home to handle the arrangements, there are many things you should know before making your final decision.
The most important part of a funeral service is the acknowledgement of change. People have a difficult time dealing with such dramatic changes, and the death of a family member or integral member of society can rip a hole in our social fabric. Nonetheless, a funeral service helps restore this fabric. Funerals are a way for us to remember a loved one who passed away. Therefore, it is important to honor the deceased’s wishes, and the wishes of family and friends.
The funeral service itself is a ceremony during which the deceased’s body is present. Usually, embalming is done to preserve the remains and slow down the decomposition process. In addition, a funeral service may also include a memorial service, such as a memorial. The body will be present for this service, and the family will likely have a reception afterwards. Sometimes, however, the family may choose a simple, direct burial. The funeral home will obtain the death certificate and arrange for transportation to the cemetery.
Funeral planning is often overwhelming and confusing. Many decisions must be made, so it is a good idea to take a few minutes to look at funeral service brochures before making final decisions. Choose a funeral home that you feel comfortable with and trust. Seek recommendations from friends and colleagues to find a funeral home you are most comfortable with. Once you have narrowed down a few funeral homes, you can make your final selection. If you are not comfortable with a particular funeral home, you can also visit several to find one that fits your budget and style.
Funeral services differ depending on religious affiliation. Catholics, for example, have a funeral mass while Jews may perform religious preparation. Islamic funerals follow strict religious guidelines. However, secular funerals are more personalized and don’t follow any set order. For those who prefer a more personal touch, a secular funeral may include a reading or eulogy by the deceased’s favorite person. This can be a very special and meaningful way to remember a loved one.
Memorial services can be a complement to a traditional funeral or even replace it entirely. The main difference between a memorial service and a traditional funeral is that a memorial service doesn’t include a body, but may include a urn that contains the deceased’s cremated remains. Memorial services can be held anywhere, from a private residence to a park or reception hall. Often, slideshows and music are featured during a memorial service, and they serve as a celebration of the deceased’s life.