A memorial service is an emotional event, which often leads to an uncomfortable situation. It takes place in the absence of the remains of departed ones. A memorial service is more informal than a funeral, where visitors exchange their stories and c...
A memorial service is an emotional event, which often leads to an uncomfortable situation. It takes place in the absence of the remains of departed ones. A memorial service is more informal than a funeral, where visitors exchange their stories and can also pay personal homage to celebrate the life of the departed. Michael Scarpaci, manager of Scarpaci funeral home in Staten Island provides tips on how to maintain etiquettes while you attend memorial service. Read through the following article to learn about memorial service etiquettes.
Oops! This image does not follow our content guidelines. To continue publishing, please remove it or upload a different image.
Be on time - As a rule, you should arrive on memorial service on time and stay there till the end. If you get late for any reason, quietly sit in the back to avoid disturbance. On the other hand, if you arrive on time and have no idea where to sit, always remember that the first few rows are usually reserved for immediate family members.
Don't monopolize the mourners - Usually, family members create a receiving line welcome visitors at the memorial service. Sometimes, the family members may not know you and your relationship with the departed. Hence, according to the traditional funeral etiquette, you need to introduce yourself with your name and how you're related to the deceased. Offer condolences and move on.
What to wear? - Traditionally, black is the color for mourning, but it's not a necessity to wear all black to a memorial service. However, you're expected not to wear bright and loud colors while attending a memorial service. If you get confused about what to wear, business casual is the safest option, which means no shorts, no flip-flops, no sweats, and no midriff tops.
What to say? - While offering condolences to family and friends of the departed, try to keep it as simple as possible. Never try to keep yourself in other person's situation, as everyone is healing differently. So, avoid comparing the loss that you've experienced in your life. However, you can add a beloved memory that you share with the deceased.
Sign the guestbook - You may want to write a condolence note, but this is not the right place to do this. Just write your name on the guestbook and, if you want, your relationship with the deceased.
Should be we bring children to the funeral or memorial service? - If a child is interested in becoming a part of a memorial service, it is absolutely alright to bring children in a memorial service. In fact, it may be a good way for a child to gain experience and say goodbye.
Whether you're the one who is mourning or attending a memorial service, always remember that the memorial service etiquette also depends on the burial service. If any doubt, seek the assistance of a funeral director. https://www.michaelscarpaci.com/
