When it comes to mourning, gathering as a community is essential to the grief process—and holding a funeral is a universal step in this process across cultures and religions. However, this year our entire way of saying goodbye to someone we’ve lost has changed. When a loved one dies, it’s important for friends and family to share stories and memories of the person and how they’ve impacted our lives. The pandemic has not only altered how we gather, but the very way we mourn.
Here is a snapshot of some effects coronavirus has had on funerals this year:
1. Family-only funerals
2. Maximum number of attendees allowed at chapel services
3. Increased cremations instead of burials
4. No receiving lines
5. Attendees must wear masks
6. Family units social-distance from other attendees
7. Virtual live streaming or recording of funeral service
8. Virtual-only services and gatherings
9. Graveside-only services
10. No religious aids, books, or pamphlets distributed
11. Attendees nod, bow, or wave instead of holding or shaking hands, hugging, or kissing anyone who does not live in their household
12. No sharing rides in cars or limousines between church, cemetery, and reception
13. No Shiva, reception, or limited with no food or beverage
Look to your funeral home for help with new funeral service processes:
Your funeral director can help guide you on modified or new practices that would be acceptable to you and your family. They may also be able to provide resources to help. This could include assistance with:
• Graveside-only services
• Outdoor reception space
• Modifying religious rituals
• Using technology to connect with family and friends through virtual funeral services,
celebrations of life, visitations, and memorial tributes
• Online guestbooks that invite people to share photos, memories, and condolences
• Sharing new funeral practices, service, and visitation details with extended family and friends
• Holding a memorial service at a later time, when restrictions have been lifted
Adjusting to funeral processes in these challenging times:
While the grief process is universal, no two people experience it exactly the same way. Here are some ways to cope with grief during the pandemic while honoring your loved one.
• Ask family and friends to share stories and photos of your loved one with you through email, phone, video chat, text, social media, or mailed letters.
• Invite people to call you, or host online group calls to stay connected.
• Create a virtual memory book, website, or blog and ask family and friends to share their memories and stories.
• Look to book or blog resources about grief and loss. Read age-appropriate books with your children to help them understand loss.
• Seek spiritual support from your faith-based organization or other community organizations.
• Use online grief counseling services, support groups, or seek support from a mental healthcare provider who specializes in dealing with grief.
• Honor your loved one through meaningful action such as preparing one of their favorite meals,
planting trees
or flowers, or re-creating their favorite day and visiting the places they went.
Grieving the loss of a loved one during the coronavirus pandemic can be overwhelming. It can also be hard to make decisions about how to grieve and honor your loved one. However, you are not alone. Turning to your family, friends, funeral home, and community can help you cope with saying goodbye in a way that offers solace and peace of mind. For more information on pre-planning funeral services or at-need assistance, call us today at 609-344-9004.