If you are attending a graveside service for the first time, you may feel a bit anxious about what to expect. This is normal as this is most likely a new situation. Whether you are attending a graveside service that follows a funeral or one that is a stand-alone event, directors of funeral homes in Belvidere, IL share what you need to know to help you feel more at ease.
Graveside services are held after the funeral or cremation and will take place at either the gravesite, or a crypt where the body or the cremated remains will be interred. These services tend to be much more brief than the funeral or memorial service. Typically the graveside service officiant will recite prayers or readings, a eulogy will then be read, and finally, the body will be lowered into the ground or placed in the crypt.
Typically the graveside service will be directly after the funeral or memorial service so you will already have chosen an outfit. If the graveside service is a stand-alone event, you should dress as you would for a funeral or memorial service. Although these services are fairly brief, they are still formal as with other services.
Also, since these services will be held outside, it is important to take the weather into consideration. You may want to take a nice jacket in colder weather, or wear lighter, breathable fabrics if the service is held in the middle of the summer.
Many times there may be opportunities where the guests may participate in the service. This may be by joining in and signing selected songs, reciting call-and response type prayers, or even taking part in shoveling dirt or placing a flower on top on the casket.
If you feel comfortable, you are welcomed to join in anywhere it is permitted. If you do not feel comfortable (or simply do not know the words to a song or call-and-response prayer) it is okay not to participate.
When you arrive to the location you may notice chairs arranged around the gravesite. Do not sit down right away as these chairs are reserved for family and others who may need to sit, such as the elderly. If there are chairs remaining once everyone has been seated, you may sit down. If no chairs remain, simply stand behind be the chairs.
Some graveside services are public meaning the family has invited everyone to attend, while others may be private for family or invite-only. If the service is public, there will typically be an announcement at the funeral or memorial service inviting all of the guests to the graveside service.
If no announcement was made or you already know that the graveside service is private, you need to respect the family and do not attend.
While attending services at funeral homes in Belvidere, IL or graveside can be a little intimidating if you have never had to attend one before, following the tips above will help you know the proper etiquette to display.