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The Memorial Ceremony And Saying Goodbye
When you lose a loved one to death, a funeral ceremony offers a formal way to say goodbye. Such services should be personalized to reflect the life of the individual. The mortuary you use offers assistance in planning an appropriate service for your loved one.
Music is often an important part of services. You may choose someone to sing or play an instrument live. The use of prerecorded music has become very common in many areas. In addition, the mortuary may have an organist on staff.
Most of the time, there is a eulogist or officiant at the service. This individual may be a member of the clergy, a friend or family member. It is generally the responsibility of the family to communicate with the individual to officiate the service. If help is needed in contacting an appropriate individual, the mortuary can provide assistance. If planning a religious service, keep in mind some groups are more specific in what should be included than others are.
If your family member was a member of a fraternal group or in the military, these groups may take part in the service. Some fraternal groups offer services that are specific to the organization. Veterans groups may provide a final playing of taps, a 21 gun salute and present a flag to the survivors.
The decision to have a viewing before or after the service is at the digression of the family. In some locations, the viewing is considered traditional, while in others it is not. Regardless of local tradition, the family has the final say in these regards.
Saying goodbye to a loved one who has passed is often difficult emotionally, but, for many, an important part of the grieving process. Plans for a funeral ceremony should be discussed before the loved one passes if possible. This allows you to plan a service you know your loved one would have approved.
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