What is the term for a viewing held prior to the funeral service?

A viewing held prior to the funeral service is commonly referred to as a wake. The wake traditionally serves as an opportunity for family and friends to gather and pay their respects to the deceased in a more personal setting. This gathering often includes moments of prayer, reflection, sharing stories, and sometimes even sharing a meal. The wake can take place in a funeral home or the home of the deceased, and it allows attendees to begin the mourning process together before the formal service takes place.

In contrast, a memorial service is typically held without the presence of the body and may occur at a later date, while a reception generally follows the funeral service as a time for attendees to socialize and share memories over refreshments. A celebration of life is usually an event that focuses on celebrating the deceased's life and achievements rather than mourning their death, and it may not necessarily follow the traditional format of a viewing or funeral service. Understanding these distinctions highlights the unique purpose of a wake in the context of funeral practices.