Open-casket visitations or wakes in Churches?
Are open-casket visitations or wakes often held in churches? If so, are funeral directors present?
Yes, and the funeral director and/or a funeral attendant would be present to greet people (and also since the deceased is still in the care of the funeral home, they will not leave the deceased unattended.)
The time when a viewing or visitation is most commonly held in a church is when the viewing is the same day as the funeral service that will also be held in the church. However, the church can be used for any day of the visitation if the church is a available for the day and time needed. Also, be aware that there may be an additional charge from the funeral home to provide transportation for the deceased to and from the church if there are viewings on days other than the day of the service.
