The role of the wake is in the context of Christian burial is very important, yet, as the funeral industry has become more commercialized and personalized — and less sacral and ritualized — wakes are beginning to disappear.
The commoditization of the funeral industry is hurting the Catholic Church
Some traditional formalities do not ring true with Pope Francis
Pope Francis prefers warm embraces, lingering conversations and selfies to the formal kissing of his ring.