Funerals can be an overwhelming and emotional time for every party involved. There are rules and etiquette that some people are unaware of, thus adding to the already intense and emotional atmosphere. Through out this article, we will take a look at few tips to help you get through this difficult day.

Technology

This is the one that is most often forgotten about. In a society that is so technology dependent, it is hard for people to shut off their phones for a few short hours while they pay their respects to the deceased. There is nothing more disrespectful then a cell phone going off midservice, or the person next to you playing games on their phone. To avoid any disrespect, turn off all technology before entering the service.

Offering Condolences

This may be the hardest tip out of the five. At times it can seem difficult to find the right words to say to the immediate family. Before you go up to the family to offer your condolences, try to think long and hard about what you are going to say. Try to avoid clichés like “at least they are in a better place now” because it diminishes the suffering that they are going through. The family wants to hear happy memories that you may have shared with their loved one. If you are still unsure of what to say, offer your condolences and help, then move on.

Children

Whether or not to bring your children at the funeral service, is one of the most debated points of funerals. If your child is at an age where they can sit quietly through a service and understand what is going on, there is no reason why they shouldn’t be there to say their goodbyes to someone they loved. If you have an infant, it is best to try and keep them at home as the crying, although unforeseen, can be a distraction from the service for those in attendance.

Where Do you Sit

Often, the dilemma of where to sit at the funeral service is the hardest for people who have never attended a service. Traditionally the first few rows are reserved for immediate family that will normally come in when the casket arrives. If you are not part of the immediate family, try to sit closer to the middle or back of the room.

If you have any further questions on proper funeral etiquette, please feel free to contact us at Charles J. O’Shea Funeral Home and Cremation Service.