What is a committal service?

• A. The part of the burial process where the body is lowered into the ground or cremated remains are buried or scattered.
• B. A ceremonial viewing of the body.
• C. A meal after service.
• D. A service that takes place at a funeral home.

Answer: (A)

A committal service is the final rite of disposition, conducted at the place where the remains are laid to rest or where cremated remains are buried or scattered. It typically occurs at the cemetery or crematorium after the main funeral service and marks the act of committing the deceased to their final resting place, often featuring final prayers, readings, or remarks and the physical interment or placement of ashes. This distinguishes it from a viewing, which happens before the service; a meal or reception held after the service; and a service that takes place at a funeral home, which is not the final disposition rite.