Let’s talk about curtains… at cremations.
Many families that I have supported have found this a difficult thing to make a decision about. Should they request that the curtains are closed or left open at their loved one’s funeral ceremony?
This moment comes towards the end of the ceremony as we mark the moment of formal goodbye, known often as the “committal”.
Some people feel the curtains must be closed as they don’t want to see any of the cremation process. Please be reassured open or closed, you will not see anything. The actual cremation takes place once we have left and in a different area of the building.
Some people find the closing of the curtains too overwhelming and final, whereas others feel leaving them open doesn’t symbolise the goodbye and means they can still see their loved one’s coffin as they leave which they may find difficult. However, for others being able to approach the coffin as you leave can bring comfort.
Some crematoriums have a lighter voile type curtain (semi-transparent) which is much more delicate than the main curtains and offers a more subtle option should you wish.
There is no right or wrong answer to this. You must do what feels right for you.
Emma
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Note: I acknowledge that not all crematoriums have curtains, please check with your celebrant or funeral director if unsure.