Wake or Visitation

Visitations are very popular among American funerals. Though the roots of visitations are religious in nature, they are a tremendous aid in the healing and grieving process of non-religious families as well. Families planning a non-traditional funeral may wish to utilize the services of a funeral home to hold a viewing for close friends and family members. At some time during the viewing hours a family member or friend may offer some words describing the life, personality, and / or accomplishments of the honoree.

A central element of a wake or visitation is often the presence of the remains, generally in an open casket. Many psychologists believe that viewing the body can help mourners begin the process of saying goodbye, and aid in developing a sense of closure.

Other elements at the wake may include a display of memorabilia that commemorate the life or accomplishments of the person being honored.

Ideas For A Remembrance Display

This could include anything family and friend might associate with the honoree. Some examples:

• Photos
• Trophies, awards or media recognition
• Military uniforms or insignia
• Equipment from a favorite sport or hobby
• Cuttings from a treasured plant or garden
• Childhood memorabilia

Formal Farewell Ceremony

Memorial services are very popular for non-religious ceremonies. In some cases this is the sole component of a non-religious ceremony - the body is buried or cremated and family and friends gather later to memorialize the deceased. Memorial services can be held in funeral homes, crematoriums, private homes, churches, or a favorite place of the deceased. A friend, family member, community member, funeral director, etc. could be chosen to lead the service.

Funeral Ceremony

The primary difference between the funeral ceremony and the memorial ceremony is that the body is present at the funeral ceremony. The ceremonies will be similar. In some cases the funeral ceremony and a viewing are combined as one service at the funeral home. Because immediate cremation is popular after the death of a Humanist, funeral ceremonies are relatively rare The next section will suggest a few basic guidelines to help aid the planning of a non-religious memorial or funeral ceremony.

Committal

The committal is generally the point at which the mourners have their last contact with the remains. This may take several forms, including lowering into the grave, placement in the crematory, or simply drawing a curtain across the casket. At this point the mourners will make their final farewell, and typically leave the site.

The Committal brings a sense of closure and finality to the bereaved. Music can be a helpful addition to this ceremony.