Traditionally, a burial service involves a visitation, followed by a funeral service in a church, or other place of worship. You have the option of having the remains interred (earth burial), or it may be entombed in a crypt inside a mausoleum (above ground burial). Family or religious traditions are often a factor for choosing burial. Burial arrangement decisions also need to be made on whether the body needs to be embalmed, what kind of casket to use, and what cemetery to use. Contact our funeral home to learn more.
Why would burial be a good option?
1. Gathering of Loved Ones: Burial services provide a physical gathering place for loved ones to come together and support each other in their grief. This communal aspect of burial allows for shared mourning and the expression of condolences, fostering a sense of unity and connection among family members and friends during a difficult time.
2. Honoring and Celebrating Life: Burial services offer a formalized opportunity to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased. By sharing memories, readings, and musical tributes, attendees can reflect on the unique qualities and contributions of the person who has passed away, affirming their significance and impact on the lives of others.
3. Closure through Burial Rituals: The act of burial provides a tangible and ceremonial way for individuals to say goodbye to their loved one. Participating in burial rituals, such as placing items in the casket or witnessing the lowering of the casket into the ground, can help family members and friends find closure and acceptance as they navigate the grieving process.
4. Incorporation of Military or Religious Ceremonies: For individuals with strong religious or cultural affiliations, burial services offer an opportunity to incorporate meaningful rituals and traditions into the farewell ceremony. Military honors or religious ceremonies provide a sense of dignity and reverence, honoring the deceased in accordance with their beliefs and values.
5. Reflection and Remembrance: Burial services encourage attendees to reflect on the life and legacy of the departed individual, fostering a sense of continuity and remembrance. Through storytelling and shared recollections, family members and friends can celebrate the memories and experiences they shared with the deceased, preserving their legacy for future generations.
6. Finding Comfort and Closure: Ultimately, burial services offer a supportive environment for individuals to find comfort and closure in the midst of grief. Coming together with others who share in their loss, attendees can find solace in the collective expression of sorrow and the reaffirmation of the bonds of love and friendship that endure beyond death.
Burial FAQ
1. What is the difference between burial and cremation? Burial involves placing the deceased's body in a casket and interring it in the ground, typically in a cemetery or designated burial plot. Cremation, on the other hand, is a process that involves reducing the body to ashes through intense heat. These ashes, known as cremated remains, can then be kept by loved ones, scattered, or buried.
2. Do I need to purchase a burial plot in advance? While it's not mandatory, purchasing a burial plot in advance can provide peace of mind and ensure that your final wishes are honored. Pre-arranging a burial plot allows you to select a preferred location, consider cemetery regulations, and potentially lock in current prices.
3. What types of caskets are available for burial? There are various types of caskets available for burial, ranging from simple wooden or metal options to more elaborate designs with decorative finishes. Caskets may also be chosen based on factors such as material, cost, and personal preference.
4. Are there specific regulations or requirements for burial services?Yes, burial services are subject to regulations and requirements that vary by location and cemetery. These may include permits for burial, restrictions on casket materials, guidelines for grave markers, and adherence to cemetery policies regarding visitation and maintenance.
5. Can I personalize a burial service? Absolutely! Burial services can be personalized to reflect the personality, beliefs, and interests of the deceased. Families may choose to incorporate unique rituals, religious customs, musical selections, or readings into the service, creating a meaningful and personalized tribute.
6. What happens to the gravesite after burial? Following burial, the gravesite may undergo regular maintenance and upkeep by cemetery staff. Families may choose to add headstones, markers, or memorial plaques to the gravesite to commemorate their loved one. Some cemeteries also offer perpetual care services to ensure the long-term preservation of gravesites.
