Today’s funerals and memorial services take many forms. One of the more common options, growing in popularity every year, is the graveside or cemetery service.
Cemetery services are small, intimate celebrations that are held directly beside the grave or interment site. These may be held as traditional funerals or as committals of cremated remains. They are usually standalone services but may be held in combination with memorial or other services at a second location.
What to Expect from a Cemetery Service
If you are considering a graveside service for your loved one, you might be wondering what it entails. Here are a few key elements, so you know what to expect:
• Location. These ceremonies are held at the grave site. This might be a traditional burial site in the ground, inside a crypt, tomb, or mausoleum. You may also have a cemetery service for the interment of cremated remains, if your cemetery allows it.
• Ceremony. This may involve readings, prayers, songs, or anything else you prefer. If your family is religious, this can be part of the ceremony.
• Committal. Your loved one’s casket will be lowered into the ground or burial site at this time. They may receive a final blessing at this time, if applicable.
• Closure. Final goodbyes are welcomed, and then the burial site or grave will be closed.
How Can You Plan a Graveside Service for Your Loved One?
If you are interested in a cemetery service for yourself or a loved one, you should begin by inquiring with your local cemetery near Antioch. Some cemeteries or burial parks welcome graveside services, while others are more prohibitive.
Still, you should not assume that your preferred cemetery or burial location does not welcome graveside services. Even many strict religious cemeteries now welcome these services, as many faithful families are looking for ways to streamline and simplify the process of burying their loved one without sacrificing important religious or cultural practices. Always begin by checking the burial site at a local funeral center, like Holy Cross Cemetery & Funeral Center. To learn more information and work with their staff to plan the perfect celebration for your loved one, contact them today.