Attending a funeral service allows you to honor the life of the departed and mourn their passing. Although the gathering can vary based on religion and cultural customs, traditional funerals in the United States typically share a few key components. If you're intimidated by the experience, learn what to expect during the various steps below. 

4 Main Parts of a Traditional Funeral Service

1. Visitation

The visitation, or wake, takes place in the days leading up to the ceremony. This gathering is usually held at a funeral home or place of worship, providing the opportunity to view the opened or closed casket. One by one, guests walk by and share a short prayer or say a few words to pay their respects to the deceased. Guests then share their condolences with the surviving family members.

2. Ceremony

The ceremony is more structured than the visitation. It takes place at a funeral home, house of worship, or outdoor venue. Guests are often given programs that outline the agenda.

This component of the funeral service often includes readings from scripture, music and singing, prayers, words from family members and friends, and a eulogy. The casket is usually on display at the ceremony, as well as flowers and pictures of the deceased during their life. 

3. Committal Service

Immediately after the ceremony, family members and close friends of the deceased travel together to their loved one's final resting place. The remains are transported by hearse to the burial site.

Mourners often share prayers and place flowers on the casket before it's lowered into the ground. If the remains are cremated, the deceased's closest loved ones might travel together to the crematorium instead. The ashes are then placed in an urn or divided among the family later.

4. Reception

After the committal service, all guests who attended the ceremony are invited to gather at an event space, church, or person's home for a reception. Food and refreshments are usually served buffet-style. Family members mingle and thank guests for their love and support.

If you recently lost a loved one, contact the compassionate professionals at Adzima Funeral Home in Stratford, CT. For over 100 years, the funeral home has helped families plan traditional funeral services to ensure no task is overlooked. Learn more about their offerings online, or call (203) 375-2200 to speak with an understanding funeral director about your needs.