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To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven; A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck that which is planted. Ecclesiastes 3:1 |
The Informal Gathering
(Normally held sometime after an interment or a cremation, usually at a non-traditional venue such as a restaurant, country club or private home.)
Even the most informal gathering can be made more rewarding using some of the basic, traditional approaches.
For example, to make memorial services more effective, the funeral provider or a family member often suggests that a spiritual or religious leader conduct the services. This person honours the religious faith and spiritual beliefs of the departed, but importantly also structures the ceremony.
A typical Christian funeral or memorial service, for instance, would begin with a welcoming to the guests, an opening song, a reading from Scripture, perhaps one or more pieces of poetry, some speakers offering remembrances or a eulogy, The Lord's Prayer, a concluding prayer or reading from Scripture, a prayer for the protection of the dead, and a concluding song.
Obviously, in an informal gathering, it is unlikely that you would schedule all these elements. However, if you include some in the gathering, you will create structure for the event which will make your guests more comfortable. They will know what to expect and what is expected of them.
The most obvious inclusions would be an opening welcome, a favourite passage from a book or poem, some recorded music (perhaps in the background, a prayer or reading from Scripture (if that is appropriate), one or more tributes or toasts, and a closing remark.
Including some reminders of the deceased such as photographs and other mementoes would also be appropriate.
