What Do You Call The Gathering After A Funeral?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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A repast

is any gathering after a funeral service. You might have heard it called a reception, which is what it’s commonly known as today. Repasts are less formal than a funeral service or memorial. They are typically open to everyone who came to the funeral, though they can also be private, depending on the family.

What do you call the lunch after a funeral?

The Funeral Reception. It is customary (but not required) to hold a reception following a funeral or memorial service. … We sometimes hear the after-funeral reception is referred to as

a “repast

.” Historically, the repast was a meal shared by close friends and family after the funeral.

What is the party after a funeral called?


A repast

is any gathering after a funeral service. You might have heard it called a reception, which is what it’s commonly known as today. Repasts are less formal than a funeral service or memorial. They are typically open to everyone who came to the funeral, though they can also be private, depending on the family.

What is a funeral gathering?

Also known as a

post-funeral reception

, the gathering is a final opportunity to experience community with others and to offer support before returning home. The gathering allows friends to strengthen their relationships and to remind each other that they are not alone as they continue their grief journey.

Can there be a reception after a funeral?

What is a wake? A wake, also known as a funeral reception, is an event where close friends and family of the deceased gather together to pay their respects to their loved one. Traditionally, a wake referred to the viewing held before the funeral, but

nowadays it’s usually held after the funeral or memorial service

.

Who pays for the meal after a funeral?

Typically,

family members of the deceased will sponsor the meal

. When financial issues are present, the family may request a donation from the attendees. Agreeing on who pays for the repast meal is essential. The post-funeral luncheon can easily exceed $2,000.

What food do you serve after a funeral?


Casseroles, baked goods, fruit and vegetable trays

are always welcome, as are canned drinks or bottled water for convenience. Above all, keep in mind that the food should be relatively tasty even if served cold, as you can’t guarantee there will be enough ovens or microwaves to keep everything warm.

Why is food served after a funeral?

After most funerals, it’s customary to have a reception or meal. During this time, family and friends gather to share food, fellowship and memories of the person who has died. It’s an important step in the grieving process because it

allows people to connect and begin to heal

.

What is a mercy meal after a funeral?

What Is a Mercy Meal? In the Greek Orthodox and Catholic religions, a mercy meal is offered after the burial service. The mercy meal is an

informal event that allows the family to gather and celebrate the deceased’s life with one another

. It’s very similar to a funeral repast offered by other religions.

Why is the party after a funeral called a wake?

Why is it called a wake? The word wake in relation to death originally meant a ‘watch’, ‘vigil’ or ‘guard’. It was used to refer

to a prayer vigil

, usually held late at night or overnight, where mourners would keep watch over their dead until they were buried.

What is the difference between a memorial and a funeral?

The biggest difference of a traditional funeral and a memorial service is

that the body is not present in a casket at a memorial service

. … A traditional funeral service is often associated with religion so it is often led by a member of clergy, whereas a memorial service is led by a celebrant or master of ceremonies.

What happens at a memorial dinner?

A Memorial Gathering is a time

that’s set aside for friends and family to pay respects to the person who has passed away

. … The body itself isn’t present during a Memorial Gathering. Instead, the cremation urn, some photographs, and meaningful personal items are displayed for friends and family.

How long after death is a memorial service?

A memorial service can be held any point after cremation, since there is no time pressure of burying the body at a cemetery. Some families choose to have a service within a few days of the death, while others

may wait a few weeks or even months

. There are advantages to holding the service quickly.

What is proper etiquette for a funeral?

Traditional funeral etiquette dictates that

you should introduce yourself

, starting with your name and how you knew the deceased. Express your condolences and move on. Don’t monopolize the mourners. Give others a chance to share their support.

How do you plan a reception after a funeral?

  1. Step 1: Choose the date and time of the reception. …
  2. Step 2: Consider your budget. …
  3. Step 3: Choose your location. …
  4. Step 4: Decide what food to serve at the reception. …
  5. Step 5: Send out invitations. …
  6. Step 6: Plan a thank-you speech. …
  7. Step 7: Assemble a take-down crew. …
  8. Step 8: Plan to rest.

What should you not wear to a funeral?


Avoid mini-skirts, low-cut blouses or dresses, and spandex

. You don’t want to draw attention to yourself. Women may wear skirts and blouses, dresses, or pantsuits that don’t emphasize your curves, cleavage, or too much leg. Keep your accessories simple.

Maria Kunar
Author
Maria Kunar
Maria is a cultural enthusiast and expert on holiday traditions. With a focus on the cultural significance of celebrations, Maria has written several blogs on the history of holidays and has been featured in various cultural publications. Maria's knowledge of traditions will help you appreciate the meaning behind celebrations.