What is a graveside committal service?

After a family member dies, some families participate in a final ritual called a graveside committal service. It is typically brief and usually includes prayers, such as the Lord's Prayer. Usually a minister reads the eulogy. Sometimes the family and friends sing a hymn such as "Amazing Grace."

Family members and close friends gather around the grave where the coffin is usually partially lowered while the minister speaks. Sometimes a family member drops the first shovelful of dirt into the grave. In closing, family members usually pass by the open grave and toss flowers onto the coffin as a minister offers the closing prayer and thanks visitors for attending.