What does visitation mean at a funeral?

A funeral is a formal service held after someone has died while a visitation is a set period of time before the funeral where people come and pay their respects to the family. A funeral takes place at a set time and is led by a funeral director or religious leader.

What is the difference between a wake and visitation?

A viewing (also called a wake) may be brief and take place immediately before the funeral service, or may last for up to three days before the service. A visitation can take place any time, before or after the funeral service or disposition, and can last for hours or days.

Are visitations come and go?

Arrive on time Typically, a visitation is a come and go event. For example, the funeral home may announce that the family will be available from 6 to 8 pm.

When did open casket funerals start?

What Is the History of Open Casket Funerals? In the United States, people historically sat or viewed bodies in the deceased person’s home (or relative’s home) before burial. In the 1800s, President Abraham Lincoln died and was one of the first people to be embalmed, and the practice continued at funeral homes since.

Do you wear black to a visitation?

When attending a visitation it is best to dress conservatively. While most people typically wear black or other dark colors to anything funeral-related, that is not necessary. What you wear should be subdued, unless otherwise requested by the family.

How long do you stay at a viewing?

There is no requirement for how long you should stay at a visitation. The length of your visit depends more on how well you know the family and how long it takes to offer your condolences and speak to other visitors. Many people stay a short time, about 15 minutes, which can be long enough to extend your sympathies.

Is a viewing always open casket?

The viewing is usually open to all mourners, though there is generally time set aside at the end of the viewing for only family members. After the viewing and before the funeral service, the family may ask the bishop to offer a prayer for the family, after which the family closes the casket.

What should you not say at a viewing?

Here are a few examples of comments to avoid: “I know exactly how you feel.” “God never gives us more than we can handle. God must have needed another angel in heaven. This is God’s plan.” “Just try to be strong.” Or anything starting with the words “at least,” such as, “At least you have your other children with you.