Funeral Etiquette

As I thought about the code of behavior that is acceptable at funerals, I began humming lines from Ecclesiastes Chapter 3:Verses 1-9, which I would like to share with you. Many a times these words have provided solace to me, I hope this time these words comfort you. The lines have been shared with you below...

For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to cast away stones and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; a time to rend, and a time to sew, a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace.

Funeral Etiquette

• After you hear the news, call the funeral home to ensure that the service is not private. While on call also inquire about the appropriate time to arrive.
• Offer condolences to the bereaved in person, if possible. While visiting relate fond memories of the deceased. Also be a good listener because this is a time that they might want to talk. In case you were only acquainted with the bereaved, introduce yourself to the other family members.
• If you are unable to attend the funeral service, you can send flowers to the funeral home or the family residence prior to the funeral. Do not worry about what flowers are appropriate because a florist is well informed.
• It is respectful to stand when the casket is brought into the room. Do not be seated until it is placed in front of the room and the family members are seated.
• Remember to pay your respects to the deceased by viewing the body if the casket is open. Most of the time, members of the family will escort you to the casket.
• Wear subdued clothes.
• If you are not sure of the proper procedure followed, check with the clergyperson of funeral home attendant.
• Ensure that your pager, electronic game and cell phone are switched off.
• Do not stare at the bereaved, let the family grieve with dignity.
• Sit in the pews that are located at the back unless you are a close friend or a member of the family.
• Turn on your headlights and drive slowly and in a respectful manner when you are part of the funeral procession.
• While at the funeral service, remember not to drink, eat or chew gum.
• Do not speak to those around you when the funeral service is in session.
• If you find that your throat is irritating you, then leave the funeral service and enter only when the cough has subsided.
• If you have children, try and leave them at home with elders or friends because they would not be comfortable at occasions like this and neither can you expect them to behave properly and attentively in such a situation.