What is the purpose of a Viewing or Wake?

The purpose of a Viewing or Wake is primarily to allow family and friends the opportunity to say goodbye and pay their respects to the deceased. This gathering provides a crucial emotional space for loved ones to express their grief, share memories, and support one another during a difficult time. It fosters a sense of community and closure as attendees honor the life of the individual who has passed away.

While there are other aspects associated with funerals and memorial services, such as conducting burial services or celebrating the deceased's life, the central focus of a Viewing or Wake is indeed the personal farewell from family and friends. This setting holds significant value in the grieving process, as it often serves as one of the first communal acknowledgments of loss.