Anytime we are faced with a new situation, it can cause feelings of anxiety. This is no different when attending a funeral service for the first time. Other than feelings of grief and loss, you might also experience feelings of nervousness not knowing exactly what to expect. To help you feel more at ease when attending services at funeral homes in Smithsburg, MD. here is what you can typically expect.

The Procession

The first thing you should know is that most likely the body of the deceased will be present. It is carried in with a procession. This procession consists of the casket being carried by pallbearers followed by immediate family. The casket is carried and placed in the front of the room and the family will take their seats. Once everyone is in place, the rest of the service will begin.

Order of Service

To know the order of the service and who is delivering each part, such as the eulogy or reading of the obituary, you can refer to the memorial program. This is a program that you will receive when you arrive at the location and enter the room. It will contain the order of service, as well as any, thank you messages and or acknowledgments the family would like to make.

Guest Participation

One thing to be aware of is that some funeral services have parts where the guests participate. This depends largely on the religion of the service and is mostly in the way of call-and-response prayers and/or songs or hymns that will be sung. You may also be asked to stand or kneel on occasion. If you feel comfortable, feel free to join in with any of the guest participation. If you are unsure of what to do, simply follow the lead of those around you. If you do not feel comfortable with any part it is okay to sit quietly and respectfully.

After the Service

If there is a public burial service at the grave site, it will be announced at the end of this service. The details will be made known so that anyone can attend. If it is not made known, then it is private or for immediate family only so make sure to respect the family’s wishes and do not attend. If there is a public funeral reception, those details will also be made known.

Good to Know

One thing that people worry about is not knowing where to sit. The general rule is the left side of the room is for friends and acquaintances and the right side is for family and relatives. Either side the first few front rows are reserved for immediate family so never sit there.

Also, make sure to show up early so you give yourself time to find parking and a seat before the service begins. A good time to aim for is about 15 minutes early.

No matter if you are attending services at funeral homes in Smithsburg, MD. or a church, knowing what to expect before you go can greatly reduce your anxiety and allow you to focus on what’s really important; paying tribute to your loved one.