SVT News' review of obituaries from April 15 this year and from the same date in 2019 shows a new pattern when it comes to funerals of relatives. 

In the past, it was most common to invite everyone who wants to come to both the funeral and the memorial service. But after the corona pandemic struck, most funerals now take place only in the circle of those closest to them. 

- In addition to the grief, many have difficulty with how it should work in a purely practical way and it is a pity for people who do not get the opportunity to gather relatives and friends, says Ulf Lernéus, union chairman of Sweden's funeral homes

Many have understanding

Even though many people understand that funerals are affected by the restrictions, it can still feel difficult for mourners not to be allowed to say goodbye in the way that they themselves or the person who passed away would have wanted. 

- But what has helped many is to livestream the funeral. We are fully aware that it is not the same as being physically involved, but it is at least an alternative in the current situation, says Ulf Lernéus. 

Corona restrictions also make it difficult to hold a subsequent memorial service, which according to Ulf Lernéus is otherwise usually a very important part of the funeral for many. 

- What we can see is that many people still linger after the ceremony itself to still talk after the funeral. We believe that it is good to still have a small ceremony for those closest to you, because there is no time for when it will be possible to invite everyone, he says. 

More important to be with in the future

Ulf Lernéus believes that people will continue to livestream funerals so that, for example, relatives living abroad or the elderly can attend, even after the pandemic is over. He also believes that in the future more people will choose to hold ceremonies outdoors in the summer.

- We also believe that now that people have not had the opportunity to attend a funeral for a friend or relative, it will be even more important to be there when it is possible again, says Ulf Lernéus.