Cross-Cultural Funeral Customs

Cross-Cultural Funeral Service Rituals

By LaVone V. Hazell, MS, FT, LFD For the past two decades, the traditional funeral rite has been in transition for various reasons: changes in social stratification due to a declining economy and shrinking resources; increased immigration to the United States; neo-local spread of the family to many geographic locations; increased demand for cremations; decline in religious practices and increased secular observances; and a shift from ancestral to contemporary funeral rites.


Making Pet Funeral Arrangements

While the concept of a pet funeral is relatively new, the value of holding a commemorative event to aid the healing process goes back to our most primitive roots. Whether you choose burial or cremation, your approach can be true to your religious views or environmental concerns. The only right approach is the one that helps you and your family say farewell to your pet. Pet Funeral Services


XX-Music for Funerals

At any event, music sets a mood, encourages emotion and welcomes guests. A funeral is no different. During a funeral, music provides a background that invites mourners to mingle and comfort each other. Here you can listen to and download various songs that you may find appropriate for a funeral ceremony. Also, check out our Funeral Music Guide for additional information and ideas. MP3 Downloads Suggested by Funeralwise



Irish Wake Funeral Service Rituals

Irish Wake Funeral Service Rituals

Irish Wake and Funeral Customs of Old Until modern times, Irish wake customs ran the gamut from profound grieving to what appeared to be rollicking good fun. This was especially true if the deceased was elderly. This curious mixture borne of a cultural blend of paganism and Christianity survives today in a severely toned-down fashion.




Celebration of Life

How to Plan a Celebration of Life

When someone dies, we want the chance to say goodbye, honor their memory, and find meaning in the loss. Throughout history, ceremony has served these purposes. Holding a meaningful service for someone we love remains one of the most important things we can do as we begin to grieve. What has changed is the form […]


Hindu Beliefs on Death and Dying

Hindu Beliefs on Dying and Death

Hindu death practices follow a similar overarching pattern with some variation by family tradition, caste, or sect. The family is the most important part of a sacred funeral rite.


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