Etiquette's for attending funeral services

Every person would have attended a funeral during his or her life time. Funerals are religious services or ceremonies performed shortly after the death of an individual. The religious customs and traditions for funeral may differ from country to country and every religion has their own culture for funerals which includes burial or cremation.  However there are some common etiquettes across religions which will be useful for attending funeral processions.

Here is a list of important DO’s and DONT’s

• Funeral is a serious occasion and your attire should reflect that. Dress appropriately as per the local religious custom.

• Usually when a family member, friend or acquaintance dies your first reaction is a feeling of 'what can I do to make them feel better?' or 'what can I do to help'. Think of some heartfelt phrases you would like to say to the family of deceased.

• When arriving at the funeral service be on time and enter the funeral home as quietly as possible. Generally front row seats are reserved for family members and close friends, so you should preferably occupy middle rows or back rows with other acquaintances

• Your main purpose of attending a funeral is to offer support to the family of deceased. Upon your arrival you should offer sympathy and condolence by saying few kind words to the bereaved family.

• It is not polite to laugh or talk loudly in a cemetery as it might disturb others. Keep your voice low and humble during your conversation with others.

• Avoid the temptation to attend phone calls or text conversations during the funeral service.

• Children should be encouraged to attend the ceremonies surrounding the death of a family member however very young children should not be taken to funeral services. Children learn through these experiences that death is a natural part of life and funeral rites are observed when someone dies. Keep your children informed about the religious customs and process to be followed during the funeral so that they are aware in advance and they don’t bother you with embarrassing questions during the funeral proceedings.

• Avoid walking directly on graves if you can (stay between the headstones).

Condolence sent through email would be inappropriate especially if you are a close friend or relative of the deceased. In case you are residing in different city or country, a hand written condolence note or a card would be more appropriate and a good etiquette for sending condolence. Alternatively you can also write a good obituary and post it on leading websites like after. me

 A funeral service is open to anyone, unless the family ask that it is a private ceremony. The funeral is an opportunity for family, friends and others to say goodbye to the person who has died. 

AUTHOR – Indar is an upcoming author, blogger, motivator and influencer. His articles and blogs have featured in different websites, blogs and magazines.  He has written interesting and informative articles on various subjects including Shipping and Logistics also.