Memorial, Thanksgiving, Funeral services are a healthy, essential part of the grieving process – not only because they allow loved ones to gather and celebrate a life well lived, but also because they give families an invaluable opportunity to come together and experience their grief in community.

Making sure that each family member feels welcome and included in the process is an essential part of the day.

Some members of the family will feel ill equipped or uncomfortable being directly involved in the service – in fact, those who were closest to the deceased may receive the greatest benefit from simply observing the service and receiving condolences.

That’s okay, too, and it doesn’t necessarily mean that they have nothing to contribute but it’s important to ask.

Beyond the eulogy, there are several ways family members can be actively involved in the service itself:

Family musicians can play or sing something that was memorable to their loved one.

Those who like to bake can provide snacks after the service.

Tech-savvy family members can create meaningful memorial videos.

Loved ones can help greet people at the door or usher them to their seats.

Individuals with artistic talents can help design the order of service.

Writers can help with the obituary or write a short poem or reflection to share during the service.

More and more people are now using the internet as a means of commemoration and a Tribute Page can help you to express, keep and display valuable personal memories and thoughts about your loved one in the days leading up to the funeral and afterwards as well. Please click here to visit out tribute pages.