How Funeral Traditions have Evolved in the Maple Ridge Community

Traditions are an important aspect of a community; they present a way to actively participate in that community’s culture and values. However, it is also important that those traditions be flexible and allow for new traditions to be introduced otherwise they risk becoming stagnant and alienating the community that they used to serve. Funeral traditions are no different and they have evolved in the modern era to meet the current needs of the Maple Ridge Community. In today’s blog we will be looking at how funeral traditions have evolved in the Maple Ridge Community.

Personalization

One of the main ways that funeral traditions have evolved going into the modern era is an increased focus on personalization. In the past funerals were primarily somber affairs that concentrated on rituals designed to help the guests say farewell to the deceased. Modern funeral services tend to focus more on the personality and values of the deceased rather than focusing on tradition or ritual. Many have also opted for different styles of funeral like Celebrations of Life which are more celebratory and joyous affairs than traditional funerals.

Cremation

The growing popularity of cremation has also led to some major changes in funeral traditions. Funerals used to have a very specific structure with a viewing, a funeral service and then a burial all within a short period following the death of the individual. With cremation you aren’t bound to this specific structure as with cremated remains you are no longer on the clock and can plan the memorial service when it is most convenient for you and your guests.

Green Shift

A notable evolution in funeral traditions in the modern era is the growing demand for environmentally conscious funeral options. These green burials involve minimizing the ecological footprint of the burial as much as possible. For example, in a green burial the body is not embalmed, and a biodegradable casket or burial shroud is used so that the remains of the deceased can break down naturally and become part of the earth.

As you can see funeral traditions have evolved a great deal in the modern era, allowing the Maple Ridge Community to have greater choice in how they would like their funeral services handled. If you have any questions about end-of-life services, please feel free to contact us.

Maple Ridge Funeral Chapel and Crematorium, based in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, has been providing compassionate funeral services on the Lower Mainland for over 60 years. We have deep roots in the community and take great pride in caring ethics and exemplary service. If you have any questions about this article or would like to talk to us about funeral services, please call us at (604) 463-8121