Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is the purpose of visitation?
What is the purpose of visitation?
Visitation is always held with an open casket.
Visitation is always held with an open casket.
False
What are some changes in visitation observed?
What are some changes in visitation observed?
From three days average to one day, more closed casket, and more personalized setting.
Match the equipment used at visitations with their purpose:
Match the equipment used at visitations with their purpose:
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What is the first viewing?
What is the first viewing?
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During the first viewing, family should have at least an hour alone before the _____ arrives.
During the first viewing, family should have at least an hour alone before the _____ arrives.
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What are the two ways to approach the first viewing?
What are the two ways to approach the first viewing?
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Children are encouraged to visit the deceased during visitation.
Children are encouraged to visit the deceased during visitation.
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What does clergy attendance typically involve during visitation?
What does clergy attendance typically involve during visitation?
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What is customary for Catholic families before leaving the funeral home?
What is customary for Catholic families before leaving the funeral home?
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What should be verified before the family leaves the visitation?
What should be verified before the family leaves the visitation?
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What is the preparation for the funeral after visitation?
What is the preparation for the funeral after visitation?
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Funeral homes allow viewing without embalming without any restrictions.
Funeral homes allow viewing without embalming without any restrictions.
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Study Notes
Visitation Overview
- Visitation, also known as wake or calling hours, allows family and friends to see the deceased and offer condolences in a supportive environment.
- May involve a closed casket with photographs displayed instead of public viewing.
Changes in Visitation Trends
- Shift from an average of three days for visitation to just one day.
- Increased prevalence of closed caskets.
- Emphasis on personalized settings for visitations.
Essential Equipment for Visitations
- Common items include flowers, a register book, prayer cards, donation envelopes, newspaper notices, sign boards, background music, tribute videos, memorial tables, and picture boards.
First Viewing Protocol
- The first viewing is emotionally intense; families are typically given an hour alone before public arrivals.
- Staff should introduce themselves and assist while remaining visibly present to offer support.
Approaches for Conducting First Viewing
- Option one: Lead the family directly to the casket and then step back while they gather.
- Option two: Escort the family halfway to the casket and maintain a supportive background presence.
Children's Involvement in Visitations
- Children are encouraged to participate in viewings but should be prepared and not pressured to attend.
Role of Music in Visitations
- Families may select special music to be played during the visitation to enhance the personalization of the event.
Handling of Flowers
- Flowers are displayed during visitation and typically taken home by the family afterward.
Procession Planning with Car List
- A procession or cortege car list is provided to the family for organization of the funeral procession.
Clergy Participation
- Clergy members officiating the funeral are expected to attend the visitation and may conduct a scheduled prayer service for the family.
Evening Prayer for Catholic Families
- Many Catholic families observe a short prayer session before leaving the funeral home, lasting about ten minutes, commonly featuring the Our Father and Hail Mary.
Final Instructions Before Family Departure
- Verify specifics on items to remain in the casket versus items to be taken out and assist the family with any necessary arrangements.
Preparation Tasks After Family Departure
- Funeral staff prepare for the following day’s services, encompassing various tasks necessary for the event.
Viewing Without Embalming
- Funeral homes may face requests for viewing without embalming, with policies varying between facilities; some allow private viewings while others limit to specific conditions.
- A consent form is required for arrangements, and families should be informed about what to expect if pursuing a public viewing without embalming.
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Description
Explore the key concepts of visitation in funeral directing with these flashcards. Understand the procedures, terminology, and significance of visitation in honoring the deceased. Perfect for students or professionals in the field of funeral services.
