What to Expect When Attending a Filipino Funeral

Attending a funeral can be a difficult and emotional experience, but it’s also an important way to pay respect to the deceased and offer support to their loved ones. If you’re attending a Filipino funeral, here are some things you can expect.

Funeral customs and traditions

In Filipino culture, funerals hold significant cultural and religious importance. They are a time for family, friends, and communities to come together to mourn, honor, and celebrate the life of the departed loved one. At Golden Haven, we understand and respect the rich customs and traditions that are integral to Filipino funerals. We allow and respect the traditions of the clients, allowing them to mourn properly in their preferred way.

Prayer services play a central role in Filipino funerals, offering comfort and solace to the bereaved. These services often take place in funeral homes or churches, where family and friends gather to pray for the peaceful repose of the departed soul. Prayers and religious rituals hold deep meaning, providing spiritual guidance and strength during times of loss.

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Dress code

Dressing appropriately for a Filipino funeral is an important way to show respect and honor to the departed loved one and their family. In Filipino culture, funeral guests are expected to dress conservatively and wear dark-colored clothes, typically in black or navy blue tones.

For women attending a Filipino funeral, a modest dress or skirt and blouse ensemble is appropriate. Therefore, it is advisable to choose subdued colors and avoid flashy or bright patterns.

Funeral service

The funeral service may take place in a church or funeral home and may include a Mass, prayer service, or eulogy. Guests are expected to be respectful and attentive during the service. At Golden Haven, we offer exceptional funeral services at our dedicated chapels and crematorium. Moreover, the funeral service itself may take place in a church or at one of our chapels, where our compassionate staff will ensure that every detail is taken care of with the utmost care and professionalism.

Viewing

A viewing or wake may be held prior to the funeral service. During this time, guests may pay their respects to the deceased and offer condolences to their family. It’s important to be respectful and quiet during the viewing. However, it is natural that some families would want it to be lively, and it sometimes serves as a reunion. In summary, the viewing part of a funeral really differs from family to family.

Food and refreshments

It’s common for Filipino funerals to include food and refreshments, such as coffee, tea, and snacks. This provides an opportunity for guests to gather and offer support to the family.

Burial

The burial typically takes place after the funeral service and may involve a procession to the cemetery. During the burial, families expect the guests to be respectful. follow the lead of the funeral procession. Most of the time, it happens after a mass. The family can conduct the mass at the chapels or at the church. From there, it starts with a funeral procession leading up to the memorial park or Columbarium of choice.

After the funeral

After the funeral, it’s common for family and friends to gather for a meal or reception. This provides an opportunity to continue offering support to the family and to share memories of the deceased.

In conclusion, attending a Filipino funeral can be a deeply emotional and cultural experience. By understanding the customs and traditions involved and being respectful and attentive, you can pay your respects to the deceased and offer support to their loved ones.

READ MORE: Golden Haven Memorial Park News and Update