My friend recently passed away in a car crash, god rest his soul, and in the obituary it said there will be calling hours on one day and a memorial service with a reception to follow the next day. (the burial service is private). I have never been to a funeral or anythin so could someone explain what goes on at both of these events?..and also what would be appropraite to wear to both? (for a girl)
Thanks alot.
2006-12-03 04:29:47 · 7 answers · asked by nicole m 1 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
Sorry to hear about your friend; that's very sad news, especially for someone so young. You have my sympathy.
At the funeral, which is basically visiting with your friend's family and friends, you should talk and express your sadness at their loss, and yours, to your friends family members. They will appreciate your caring and your friendship. Sometimes there are envelopes, if a person wants to give a little something to the family, but this isn't mandatory.
The Memorial service is probably prayers, from a person in their religion, or from a funeral director. People just remain seated, as in a church, and observe the services.
Appropriate clothing would be anything nice, Black dress pants, Black skirt, Darker colored or Black dress, or anything of any color, ( not bright, party like clothes, tho, out of respect for the family) In other words, your nicer clothes, not jeans, etc...
Again, I'm sorry for the loss of your friend. God Bless you,
2006-12-03 04:42:15 · answer #1 · answered by JoJoCieCie 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
I am so sorry about your friend.
Each funeral is different. Some have only music, and a short message from a preacher of some kind, while others have a little bit of music, a message, and time for friends and family members to share stories.
What you should wear depends on where the funeral is, and what time of day it's being held.
If it's in the morning or early afternoon, and it's at a cemetery chapel, you should go business casual (slacks and a nice shirt). If it's later in the day, at a church, you should be more dressy (skirt and blouse, or a dress.).
Dark colors are more appropriate, but you don't have to wear black.
The calling hours are probably the same as a "viewing", and for those, I think just about anything decent would be appropriate. There, you can go to your friend's casket and pay your respects.
I know how it feels to lose a friend. I lost one of my best friends in a car accident seven years ago. My thoughts and prayers are with you, and with your friend's family.
2006-12-03 12:36:00 · answer #2 · answered by The_Cricket: Thinking Pink! 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
at the calling family receives the deceased friends who want to pay their respects to the close family members. if the casket is open the visitor may view the deceased person's body for the last time or if it is a closed casket the casket will be closed and a photograph of the deceased will be on top of the casket.
a memorial service is when people attend a service which will pay the offices of respect the living can do for the deceased. people will remember what good the deceased has done and remind those present that he has left behind good memories.
a reception may or may not be a meal depending upon what arrangements the family has made. if there is a meal at a restaurant the guests attending will pay for their own meal and conversation will generally be around family and friends.
2006-12-03 12:40:04 · answer #3 · answered by Marvin R 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Please do accept my condolences.
You do not need to wear black upon a death. But, the days of people wearing black are pretty much gone. Just dress conservatively.
My religion does not have ''calling hours'', tho, I have been to some. You just go and tell the family how sorry you are. The memorial service will be like a church service, so, you just go in and sit down.
At both places there may be a guest book for you to sign.
2006-12-03 12:45:45 · answer #4 · answered by Shossi 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
A girl can wear almost anything. As long as its black and not too revealing. Definately pay your respects in which ever way you can. Every funeral is different. That's the reason why everything is confusing and I'd give you advice, but it's hard since every funeral I've ever gone to is different. But good luck and sorry for your loss. Oh and make sure to say that to family.
2006-12-03 12:38:36 · answer #5 · answered by Sarah K 1 · 1⤊ 0⤋
During the period of mourning black clothing is acceptable. During the memorial, a viewing of the departed may take place, as well as offering sympathies to the family. The funeral will begin with music, an eulogy, some prayers, then a sermon, depending on the departed religious orientation. It is customary to bring food to the family of the deceased, as well as offering prayers for the departed. I cover all mirrors in the home where a death has taken place, as it is an old custom in my family. My deepest sympathies to you, in your loss. May God have mercy on their soul, and may they rest in peace. My heritage celebrate the life of the deceased during the wake. Food, drink and fellowship are usually the norm during the wake. We reminisce the departed's life, their impact on us, and the desires of the departed, then sing praises to the departed.
2006-12-03 12:58:18 · answer #6 · answered by Battlerattle06 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Hi, sorry about your loss, according to the information you have posted it is clear that on one particular day you may call to view your friends remains at his home, the memorial service is open to all mourners but the burial is for the family only.
you should try to wear a sombre suit(black) if possible and a shirt and tie(black)
2006-12-03 12:34:45 · answer #7 · answered by Sentinel 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋