A funeral or memorial service is for the living. It helps the survivors face the reality of death. When a loved one dies, it is always a difficult time.
Emotions run high.
We may feel anger, confusion, sadness or even feel emotionally numb. The funeral acts as a ceremony of recognition and gives testimony of the value of life. It involves a planned activity and provides friends and relatives a chance to express their support and love. This in turn fulfills the bereaved's need for support. By allowing the clergy to be directly involved in the program, the funeral can reaffirm religious beliefs.