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Nov 14, 2019 · A wake is one of the many ceremonies or rituals a family may choose to have after a loved one has passed away. Cultures all over the world have wakes. The purpose of a wake is to bring family, friends, and the community at large together to celebrate the life of the deceased.
- The Wake in History
- Evolution of The Wake
- Today’S Wakes
- Wake vs. Funeral
In some ancient societies, especially in Ireland and other parts of Northern Europe, the wake was a custom practiced in the days between a death and a burial. People would sit vigil with the dead body, praying and watching over it throughout the day and night. This accounts for the term “wake,” which comes from the same word root as “watch.” One re...
As time went on and Christianity took hold in Northern Europe, ancient superstitions began to fade, and evil spirits were less of a reason to watch over a dead body. However, people had found over the years that there was value in sitting together as preparations were being made for burial. It was an opportunity to share favorite memories of the lo...
Today, a wake can be any of a few different types of ceremony. One is essentially the same thing as the Irish wake that traveled to the U.S. more than 100 years ago. It’s a gathering of family and friends that takes place between the death and the funeral. Sometimes this gathering is called a viewing or a visitation. If the body is present in a cas...
Regardless which definition of wake is used, it’s not the same thing as a funeral or memorial service. A funeral or memorial service is generally a more formal gathering, with a celebrant who guides a service that includes scripture readings, eulogies, music, and sometimes a homily or sermon. In contrast, a wake is more freeform, with multiple smal...
Aug 25, 2023 · A wake is usually a few hours long but may be longer depending on the group gathered, how many people want to share memories, and how the wake is set up. If the wake is held in a person's home, it might go longer than if a space is rented for a set amount of time.
May 17, 2023 · Generally speaking, a wake is the service held the evening before the funeral. Sometimes called a visitation or viewing, the wake is a solemn but usually informal gathering where those who knew the deceased person come to pay their final respects and show support to the family of the deceased. The body (or, sometimes, cremated remains) is ...
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Jul 11, 2020 · Greeting The Family. The primary purpose of a wake is to offer comfort to the family members. In some cases, there may be a formal receiving line for you to walk through to give your respects. Or, in a more informal atmosphere, this may involve simply sitting down with the family and sharing condolences and memories.
Jun 16, 2021 · Different countries have different customs for when the wake happens; In the UK, you usually go to the wake straight after the funeral; The dress code for a wake is usually similar to the funeral ; Some things that usually happen at a wake include: A wake can also be a simple gathering without structure or activity
A wake is a social gathering associated with death, held before a funeral. Traditionally, a wake involves family and friends keeping watch over the body of the dead person, usually in the home of the deceased. Some wakes are held at a funeral home or another convenient location. The wake or the viewing of the body is a part of death rituals in ...
