How to Hold a Vigil After Someone's Death

It's a difficult time when someone passes on unexpectedly and you are left behind to figure out all the pieces as to why. There is comfort to be found in the company of others who miss that person just as much. If there is a tragic accident or if the person has passed on at the hands of another it is even harder to accept or find comfort. That's why it is so important to know how to host a candlelight vigil for that person.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Upon deciding to host a vigil, it is important to set a date and time. The second important step is to get that time out to family members, friends and the public.

2. Generally word of mouth is a good way to do this. However, if the person was a public figure or too many people are involved, you may have to use the newspaper.

3. The night of the vigil, have someone on hand to do nothing but hand out the candles, making sure everyone has a candle. Sometimes people prefer to bring their own candles which is just as good.

4. At the appointed time, have a minister or priest say a prayer as the candles are lit. Once all the candles are burning, ask the public or family members if they would like to say something about the loved one who has passed.

5. Leave about a half hour's time for the loved ones and friends to express their feelings or say a prayer aloud. Some may wish to read a poem they wrote or found in a book, while others may want to read from the Bible.

6. At the end of the vigil, make sure everyone knows that while the candles will be blown out, your love and memories for the deceased will never disappear. At that point, have everyone leave in an orderly fashion.

7. If the vigil must be held indoors due to weather, you can also have cake and punch, coffee or tea for those who wish to stay behind and visit with each other.

Tips & Warnings

• If you anticipate that the crowd is going to be a large one at the vigil, make plans ahead to borrow a microphone so everyone can hear.
• If the vigil is held for someone who has died tragically at the hands of another, the media will be present. Remind everyone that this is a solemn occasion in the name of the deceased and not a time to debate what has happened. Keep everyone calm and solemn.