Mourning Through Monitors: Death at a Modern Age

To say that the world has changed is an understatement. With ever-evolving technology and today’s modern society, it’s quite incredible to see how far we’ve come. In more ways than one, so much has changed in more ways than one — including funerals.

 

When webcasting first came into light in the mid 90s, people saw the possibility of using this to easily share information with others who are thousands of miles away — office meetings, long distance relationships, family bonding and come early 2000s, funerals.

 

Evolving from Traditions

Funerals online have become a way of embracing the modern, digital age and simultaneously, a step farther from tradition.

 

While it’s a concept easily misunderstood, pioneers and practitioners of the service point out that it’s not meant to replace people in funerals. Instead, it is for those who live far away and find it remotely impossible to be physically present but want so much as to pay their last respects to their loved ones.

 

What is commonly seen as a breakaway from tradition is in fact, an evolution from it, with families far away finding ways of mourning their dead and being able to say their final farewell.

 

Livestreaming Ceremonies

Online funeral viewing is entirely non-invasive. Undertakers and funeral directors explain that webcams are placed towards the back of the room, so as not to disrupt the solemn ceremony at hand. The access is also secured and protected to ensure the occasion’s privacy online.

 

Such service is implemented solely for the families and friends to share the moment with those who are not able to make it and upon their consent.

 

Funeral Association of Canada

The Funeral Association of Canada recently wrapped up its annual convention in Lake Louise. The spotlight was on livestreaming funeral ceremonies, along with diamonds made of cremated remains, ephemeral eco-friendly caskets and handmade, sculpted faces of the deceased designed to be urns.

 

Such convention is a testament of people embracing new ways of mourning those who have passed on.