7 Reasons Why Funerals Matter

We understand that discussing or pre-arranging a funeral is not a welcome subject for most people. Some even question if funerals are really necessary or desirable.

But there are compelling reasons why funerals matter. Whether you choose a traditional or a contemporary ceremony, a funeral provides a profound experience that ultimately aids in the grieving process.

The 7 key reasons why funerals matter are:

1. They bring together friends and family whose support and compassion give us comfort and perspective.
2. They help us express our grief in a safe setting.
3. They let us share memories, tributes, and appreciation for the life of the deceased.
4. They help us acknowledge the reality of death.
5. They allow for the expression of faith.
6. They provide us with a sense of continuity — that life goes on.
7. They encourage our acceptance of loss and help us to heal.

Virtually everyone who comforts family and friends at a visitation and attends a funeral experiences a profound sense of their importance and helpfulness.

More than endings, funerals are bridges of transition. As time passes and grief subsides, we appreciate more fully the relationship that endures. We see that the words spoken and feelings experienced during the visitation and funeral help us reach a place of fond memory and deep appreciation for the person whose life is celebrated.

That is why we believe that conducting funerals is a sacred trust. At Milward, we keep this trust uppermost in mind when serving you.

Cremation: 3 key reasons why
visitation and a service still matter

Some people think that with cremation, little need be done but to have their ashes scattered. However, cremation is simply a type of final disposition just as burial is a type of final disposition.

For the people left behind, a visitation and service as part of the grieving process is every bit as profound and helpful as a traditional funeral and burial. They still matter for these three key reasons:

1. They give focus to the grief process we need for healing.
2. They allow family and friends to come together in a safe setting for support of each other.
3. They provide a place to share memories, tributes and appreciation for the unique life of the person being remembered.

There are many ways to meet these human needs; visitation, memorial gathering, funeral, memorial services whether they are public, invitation only or private.

The important point is that we need ritual and ceremony to help us comprehend major life changes. When words are inadequate, we use ritual. It is no different than the experiences we have at baptisms and weddings. "We will not get through the question about what's next unless we have a presence, a language, a ritual." — Thomas Lynch

Permanent Memorialization matters, too.

As the years go by, having a place of permanent memorialization allows family and friends a tangible area to visit — a sacred spot where you can engage in quiet reflection and rekindle treasured memories of the deceased.

You can choose from a number of possibilities: scattering gardens with permanent markers, urn gardens, traditional burial of urns, or niches found in mausoleums or special areas on cemetery grounds. Some prefer the urns in their homes, although we do not recommend this as a permanent alternative. If someone prefers their ashes scattered at a remote spot, a special permanent marker can still be placed at a cemetery.

Do you have other questions about the many options that cremation offers? Call on us or e-mail us. We’ll give you answers — and understanding — at no cost or obligation.

Back to top