If you have been invited to the service of a loved one who was a Catholic and who wanted to have a traditional service, it can be important to consider what you can expect from attending that type of service. Catholic services are traditional and can seem overwhelming for people who have never been to one before. If that is something that you are worried about, but you want to be sure that you get closure after a death, there are some tips that directors of funeral homes in Brookfield, IL want you to remember.
Something that you want to keep in mind is that Catholic services have three parts. The first part is the wake or viewing. This is when you get to greet the family and to get the closure you need after the death. It also lets you say goodbye to your loved one, because the casket is usually present. The next part of the service is the funeral mass. The funeral mass takes place at the church where the person got all of their sacraments during life. It is a somber occasion, and the casket is always present, though it may not be open. After that, the body is taken to the place of burial for a graveside service.
You want to be sure that you also choose something somber and conservative to wear to the service. It is important that you are respectful. There will be many religious parts to the service, so remember that even if you are not religious, you still want to respect the family and follow the lead of other people if you have never attended a Catholic service before.
It is also a good idea to send the family a sympathy gift. A sympathy gift can let them know that you are thinking about them and that you have them in your thoughts. A good option is a sympathy card. A sympathy card can be exactly the right gesture for people who are struggling with grief. You can also choose to send them flowers. If you want to do this, be sure you purchase them from a florist and that you include a note.
These are some of the most important things you want to remember when getting ready to attend a Catholic service. It can be crucial that you reach out to people who have attended this kind of service before so that you can get some guidance. By knowing what to expect, you can get the closure you need when you attend. If you are not sure what you can expect or if you want to know more about this type of service, you can always reach out to a Brookfield, IL funeral home like us. We have years of experience, and we can offer the guidance that you need after the death of a loved one. Call us right now to get started making arrangements or to know more about your options.