Chesapeake-beach, MD Funeral Homes | Funeral Services

Every state in America has its own laws and customs regarding funerals, burials, visitations and other issues relating to the end-of-life. For example, in Chesapeake Beach, MA, funeral homes reflect this heritage. Culture has always played a prominent role. In this state and others in North America, originally Victorian customs asserted a strong influence on the place of funerals in society. However, the role of major national events such as the American Civil War also had a severe impact.
In later centuries, the changing demographics and ongoing cultural melting pot caused by immigration also influenced the funeral business. Today, different philosophical approaches to death and the meeting of different cultures and new religions result in new traditions and different funerals. Technology also plays a role in changing how we look at funerals. Across the United States, from Alaska to Florida and from California to Chesapeake Beach, MA, funeral services continue to reflect the changing nature of funerals, including wakes.
What is a Wake?
In North America, a wake is synonymous with a viewing. It is a gathering. Traditionally, anyone who knew the deceased could attend. Today, it brings together friends and family to acknowledge the death of someone they all cherished and respected. Wakes are transitional customs. An integral part of certain Chesapeake Beach, MA funeral services, a wake reflects a Celtic heritage. They are also celebrations of the deceased. They traditionally rejoice in the life the deceased led but also remind everyone that they are alive and need to recognize this aspect.
When and Where are Chesapeake Beach, MA Wakes Held?
Wakes may last as long as three days. They traditionally take place in someone's home including the residence of the deceased with his or her body present. A wake happens after death occurs and sometime before the burial. Typically, it will occur during the week of the individual's passing often a day or two prior to the service taking place. If the body is to be kept in view for more than 48 hours embalming must occur. This is in line with legislation governing Chesapeake Beach, MA funeral homes.
In Chesapeake Beach, MA, funeral services and the wake occur on the same day. People attend the wake and the funeral at the funeral home. They then proceed to the cemetery. If the ceremony is Catholic, it may include a prayer vigil that will take place on the evening before the funeral service.
The time of the wake need not be exact. In general, North American visitations or wakes are flexible. They extend through a specific evening or evenings. Announcements to this purpose appear in the local newspaper. They provide the date and time for viewing. Arrangements may be made through online Chesapeake Beach, MA funeral homes.
Characteristics
Modern wakes may occur in Chesapeake Beach, MA funeral homes. This can remove the customs of dancing, drinking and other aspects of a traditional wake. The alternative is to hold these "party" aspects afterwards. This can take place at the deceased's or someone else's residence. Sometimes, a hall is rented for the occasion.
The actual nature of a wake is strongly dependent upon the culture of the family and friends of the individual. As a result, it may be a low-key ceremony such as those of a Catholic vigil prayer or raucous and loud such as a stereotypical Irish wake. Some Chesapeake Beach, MA funeral services include more somber wakes; others celebrate the former living with song, dance, stories, drink and dance.
Some wakes encourage the sharing of information and experiences. People will tell stories about their interactions with the deceased. They will share memories and let others know how they felt about the dead. It is a celebration of the deceased's life.
What is the Purpose of a Wake?
A wake is the final opportunity for you to acknowledge the dead. It is a way to say the final goodbye. For family and close friends, it is a means of reaching closure on this chapter of their life. For all who knew him or her, it is a way to show respect and reflect on their relationship or interaction with the departed.
Wakes conducted by Chesapeake Beach, MA funeral services providers, allow people to come together for comfort. They arrive united in their grief at the loss of this individual. If the wake is one held in a party atmosphere, some experts believe it allows mourners to prepare themselves to accept life as a survivor, to acknowledge the reality of the situation, to send the deceased on the way in a joyful manner and to move on with their life.
Arranging a wake is an important part of the grieving process for many different cultures and people. It allows them to connect with the larger community and to share how they feel. It is a way to remember the dead. It serves to celebrate both the life of the dead and to encourage the continuation of those who remain behind. It recognizes the role and influence of the deceased not only for those closest to him or her, but upon the entire group or community. Talking oto the experts at Chesapeake Beach, MA funeral homes can help you let the process begin.