What is a "viewing" in a funeral context?

A "viewing" in a funeral context refers to a specific opportunity for family and friends to see the deceased individual prior to the funeral service. This allows mourners to pay their respects and can be an important part of the grieving process, serving as a moment of closure for those who knew the deceased. The viewing typically takes place in a funeral home or at a designated location and can vary in length and formality based on cultural practices and family preferences.

The other options, while related to funeral practices, do not accurately define a viewing. A service held after cremation typically refers to a memorial service rather than a viewing. A meeting to discuss funeral arrangements involves logistical planning and does not involve viewing the deceased. Similarly, a counseling session for bereaved families focuses on emotional support rather than the physical aspect of viewing the deceased. These distinctions underscore the specific nature of what a viewing encompasses in the context of funeral practices.