If you have had a family member or friend pass away, you will most likely be attending their funeral. If you have not been to one before, this can cause you to have feelings of anxiety as you simply do not know what to expect. Directors of funeral homes in O'Fallon, MO. share what you need to know about funerals to help you feel more comfortable. 

The Body Will Most Likely be Present 

If you have not attended a funeral before, you may not be aware that the body of the deceased will most often be present. It will be carried in by pallbearers at the beginning of the service and taken to the front of the room where it will be placed. The top of the casket may be closed, or open either with the top half or the top and bottom half. 

The Order of Service 

Once the casket is carried in and the family has entered and sat down, the service will begin. Funerals are typically religious services and therefore there is normally a priest or other religious leader that leads the services. This person is called the “officiant”. 

The officiants will start by saying a welcome and introduction followed by a prayer. They will then turn the microphone over to whomever is speaking next. Typically there will be family members and sometimes close friends who will be speaking. They may recite a passage, read the obituary, or delver a eulogy. 

Most funerals will provide their guests with a funeral program, This is a small pamphlet that will list the order of service as well as the names of who is giving what part. 

You May (or May Not) Participate 

Depending on the religion of the service as well as other factors, there may be times where the guests have the opportunity to participate. This is most common when it comes to call and response types of prayers. This is where the religious leaders says something and the guests either repeat or say a different line back. 

If you are familiar with this prayer and feel comfortable, then you are absolutely encouraged to  participate and join in. However, if you are not familiar with the prayer or feel uncomfortable,, it is entirely appropriate to not join in but rather sit (or stand) respectfully as the prayer is taking place. 

The same is said when it comes to music selections. Often times hymns or other selections will be sung by the guests. If you would like to join in, feel free, If not, that is okay as well. 

Offering Condolences 

At the funeral you may have an opportunity to approach the family and offer your condolences, Don’t worry if you do not have the perfect thing to say. Something short and simple such as “I’m sorry for your loss”, or “James will be missed by everyone who knew him” are appropriate and will be appreciated by the family. 

As funeral directors, we understand attending a funeral for the first time can be intimating and a little overwhelming. We hope this information will help feel more comfortable you when you have to attend a service at a funeral home in O'Fallon, MO.