What is the primary purpose of a viewing in funeral services?

The primary purpose of a viewing in funeral services is to provide a space for family and friends to gather and say goodbye to the deceased. This emotional farewell allows individuals to confront the reality of death, express their grief, and support one another in a shared experience of loss. It serves as a vital component of the grieving process, helping attendees to begin to accept the death and pay their last respects to the person who has passed away. By creating a setting where loved ones can commune, reflect, and honor the deceased, the viewing plays a significant role in the overall healing journey following a loss.

While discussions surrounding funeral arrangements, religious ceremonies, and the embalming process may also occur during this time, they are not the central focus of the viewing itself.