Reasons to Attend a Funeral or Memorial Service
Funerals and memorial service attendance shows support for the surviving family members and respect for the deceased. In addition, they offer the opportunity for you to remember the person who died. In general, if the bereaved is a close family member or friend and the service is local, you should attend. If you’re not as close to the deceased, attendance is normally optional and a sympathy card, flowers or donation in memory of the deceased can be considered.
However, sometimes choosing whether to attend a funeral or memorial service is not an easy decision to make due to various factors. Below are some questions to ask yourself if you’re ever faced with making this decision.
What is Your Relationship with the Deceased?
When was the last time you communicated with the deceased? Considering how well you knew the deceased individual is the first factor to consider. If your relationship ended on negative terms, it may be better to not cause any unnecessary stress on the grieving family and friends. Always show compassion for the deceased’s family. If you think your presence could be a distraction to those grieving, consider missing the service.
How Do Others Relate to the Deceased?
Sometimes, attendance at funerals or memorials is done as a sign of support and respect for family and friends. Even if you don’t know the deceased personally, ask friends and family if your attendance would help them through the grieving process.
Where’s the Funeral/Memorial Service Located?
If the service is located out of town, you’ll have to consider not only your relationship to the deceased, but also how difficult it may be to attend the service. If you’re close to the deceased but cannot attend due to logistical reasons, consider contacting the family to let them you cannot attend. Other options are to send a letter or flowers expressing your condolences to show your support. Also, be sure to check with the funeral home to see if the option of watching the funeral online will be available.
How’s Your Personal Health?
Health reasons are a justifiable reason to not attend a funeral or service. If health reasons prevent you from attending a service, show your support for the grieving family in other ways such as sending a card or taking the time to call the family.
Can I Properly Adhere to the Deceased’s Religious Beliefs?
Services for the deceased range widely depending on religion, ethnicity and culture. It’s important that attendees avoid upsetting or offending anyone, so if you are not going to honor the deceased’s religious/cultural beliefs, it may be best to miss the service.
Let Circle of Life Assist You with Your Plans
Funerals and memorial services ensure you spend time honouring memories of the deceased as well as show compassion toward their loved ones. Let Circle of Life Cremation and Burial Centre Inc. help you with honouring the life of a loved one, or with pre-planning your own burial service. Contact us today to learn more about our services.
