Today, there are many end-of-life options available to honor an individual. A burial service, for example, is a traditional choice and may be used with or in lieu of a formal funeral or another memorial service. Find out more about graveside ceremonies and what they entail below.

A Guide to Burial Services

What Does the Service Entail?

Typically held after the main funeral, a burial service is a brief ceremony held graveside. The hearse will transport the coffin to the church graveyard or cemetery, where it will then be placed on planks above the ground. The officiant, who may be a member of the church clergy or someone designated to lead the ceremony, will then recite a few words. Readings can encompass poetry, passages from religious texts, or even song lyrics. 

What Is the Proper Etiquette?

While a wake or viewing is usually open to friends and acquaintances, traditional funeral or burial ceremonies are usually reserved for close surviving loved ones. If you are to attend a burial, dress appropriately by avoiding open-toed shoes, revealing clothing, or loud prints. Some people express their wishes for a certain dress code, such as wearing a favorite color of the deceased. Proper burial attire varies by religion and culture as well, so you might ask a family member if there are any preferences or requests. 

The seats near the coffin will be reserved for the closest surviving family members. If there are no more seats available, you may stand nearby. 

Loved ones may also throw flowers or dirt onto the casket once it’s lowered. Other guests may be invited to do the same, depending on the nature of the ceremony. For instance, in Jewish Orthodox funerals, guests scoop dirt with the back of the shovel and place it back in the ground for the next person. If you’re in doubt, follow the lead of fellow guests. 

If you’re pre-planning arrangements for yourself or in a time of need after losing a loved one, turn to Abriola Parkview Funeral Home in Trumbull, CT. Our team has been helping families hold meaningful ceremonies, including burial services, to honor the lives of those they have lost for more than 100 years. Learn more about our services online or call us at (203) 373-1013.