Funeral Directing Chapter 4 Visitation

Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of visitation?

To arrange the funeral service details

To hold a religious ceremony

To prepare the body for burial

A scheduled time for friends and family to pay their respects (correct)

Visitation is always held with an open casket.

False

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:

Flowers = Display and taken home by the family Register book = Sign in for attendees Prayer cards = Provide comfort and remembrance Donation envelopes = Accept contributions in memory of the deceased Music = Adds personalization during visitation Signup and view all the answers

What is the first viewing?

The first time family can privately view the deceased before public arrivals. Signup and view all the answers

During the first viewing, family should have at least an hour alone before the _____ arrives.

public Signup and view all the answers

What are the two ways to approach the first viewing?

Lead family to the casket smoothly or stay in the background halfway Signup and view all the answers

Children are encouraged to visit the deceased during visitation.

True Signup and view all the answers

What does clergy attendance typically involve during visitation?

Clergy visit the family and a prayer service is scheduled. Signup and view all the answers

What is customary for Catholic families before leaving the funeral home?

Having a short prayer said. Signup and view all the answers

What should be verified before the family leaves the visitation?

What should be left in the casket Signup and view all the answers

What is the preparation for the funeral after visitation?

Preparing for services the following day. Signup and view all the answers

Funeral homes allow viewing without embalming without any restrictions.

False Signup and view all the answers

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.

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.