What is the Difference Between Funeral and Memorial Service

When someone dies, we hold a funeral or memorial service. The main purpose of both is to honor, remember, and celebrate the life of a person who has passed away. Sometimes, it’s difficult to tell apart the difference between funeral and memorial service.

What is the difference between funeral and memorial service? A funeral includes the body in a casket, whereas a memorial service usually does not include the body in a casket.

Key Areas Covered

1. What is a Funeral  
     – Definition, Features
2. What is a Memorial Service
     – Definition, Features
3. Similarities Between Funeral and Memorial Service
     – Outline of Common Features
4. Difference Between Funeral and Memorial Service
     – Comparison of Key Differences
5. FAQ: Funeral and Memorial Service
     – Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

Key Terms

Funeral, Memorial Service

What is a Funeral

A funeral is a ceremony or service held shortly after a person’s death, usually including the person’s burial or cremation. It is usually guided by religious or cultural traditions. A funeral allows family, friends, and loved ones to come together to grieve, share memories, and find comfort in one another. Funerals usually follow a structured process with several key events.

The first event is the visitation or viewing. Here, people can see the person for the last time before burial or cremation. In a viewing, the casket is open, while in a visitation, the casket is closed. This is a chance for close family and friends to say their goodbyes. Some traditions, like Roman Catholicism, also refer to this as a wake.

Next is the funeral service. This is a formal gathering led by a religious leader or officiant. This can take place in a church, temple, or funeral home. During the service, people may offer prayers, deliver eulogies, or share reflections on the life of the person who has died.

This is followed by committal service, where the body is taken to its final resting place. If the person is being buried, the casket is lowered into the ground at a cemetery. If cremated, the ashes may be buried, scattered, or placed in a special location like a columbarium. Some cremation services allow family members to witness the process or even press the button to begin cremation.

The final event is the reception. This is a more informal gathering where mourners come together to support the grieving family. This may take place at a family home, a community hall, or another location. People share stories, memories, and meals, offering comfort to one another. Some traditions refer to this as a repast or repass.

What is a Memorial Service

A memorial is a special gathering where family and friends come together to remember and celebrate the life of someone who has passed away. Unlike a traditional funeral, a memorial usually takes place without the body or casket present. Sometimes, cremated remains may be displayed in an urn. Since there is no burial or urgent timing, a memorial can be held weeks, months, or even years after the person’s passing.

A wide range of people may attend a memorial – close family and friends, coworkers, neighbors, acquaintances, or those who simply want to pay their respects. The atmosphere is often more uplifting than at a funeral. But there may still be moments of sadness and reflection. The focus is on honoring the person’s life, sharing memories, and celebrating what they meant to those who knew them.

These gatherings are usually less formal and structured than funerals. Memorials are often hosted by a celebrant, a family member, or a master of ceremonies. Some memorials may include speeches, music, and favorite foods, while others may include casual gatherings with laughter and storytelling.

Similarities Between Funeral and Memorial Service

• Both are held to honor, remember, and celebrate the life of a person who has passed away.
• They are attended by family, friends, and those who knew the deceased.
• People may give speeches, share stories, play music, or display photos to honor the deceased.

Difference Between Funeral and Memorial Service

Definition

A funeral is a ceremony or service held shortly after a person’s death, usually including the person’s burial or cremation. A memorial, on the other hand, is a special gathering where family and friends come together to remember and celebrate the life of someone who has passed away.

Presence of the Body

A funeral includes the body in a casket, while a memorial service usually does not include the body in a casket.

Timing

A funeral typically happens soon after death, usually within days. A memorial service can be held weeks, months, or even years later.

Structure

Funerals follow a formal structure, whereas memorial services are less formal and structured.

Religious Aspect

Funerals often include religious rituals and prayers, while memorial services can be either religious or non-religious.

FAQ: Funeral and Memorial Service

1. Is a funeral the same as a memorial service?

No, a funeral and a memorial service are not the same. A funeral includes the body in a casket and happens soon after death, while a memorial service usually takes place later and does not have the body present.

2. How is Mass seen as a memorial?

In the Catholic faith, Mass is similar to a memorial because it remembers and honors Jesus Christ’s sacrifice. During Mass, especially the Eucharist, believers recall His death and resurrection, just as a memorial honors and remembers a loved one who has passed away.

3. What is another name for a memorial service?

Another name for a memorial service is a celebration of life. This term is often used to emphasize the positive aspects of the person’s life. It focuses on their achievements, memories, and the joy they brought to others rather than on mourning their death.

Reference: 

1. “Memorial Services.” Saamis.

Image Courtesy:

1. “A Family and a Pastor in a Funeral Service” (CC0) via Pexels.com