Last Wednesday, April 29, marked a first in the field of funeral rituals. At a time of social distancing, it is impossible to gather in the reception halls and visitation parlours for the funerals of loved ones who have left us. Therefore, a suitable alternative had to be found to allow a dignified last good-bye. It was at the Complexe funéraire Aeterna that the first in-car condolences took place—a unique concept in Quebec imagined by Executive Director Lucie Marsolais.

An innovative concept

It was when she noticed that Quebecers were showing creativity in going to see their loved ones, while separated by window panes, that our Director, Mrs.  Marsolais, thought of replicating this idea for the funerals taking place at the Complex. The casket was then positioned in front of a large glassed-in area overlooking the parking lot of the Complex. Floral arrangements as well as a photo of the deceased were installed as well as a backdrop for more privacy. To offer their condolences while remaining in their car, the family’s relatives and friends had the chance to drive past in a procession in front of the glass pane and show their support in this way.

Part of the deceased’s family was therefore inside and most of them outside to welcome the many cars that came there. “Everyone, notified by social networks, was allowed to stop a few seconds in front of the casket surrounded by flowers and a photo of the deceased. Many were crying. A few got out of their vehicles and approached the casket installed behind the window. The expression “rite of passage” has probably never been so justified,” stated Stéphane Baillargeon in his article in Le Devoir.

A great success

The family was very positive about this new opportunity for family and friends to come and bid their farewells. The Complex, which has a U-shaped parking lot, makes this new format possible. On April 29, more than 425 cars paraded in front of the casket; Mrs. Marsolais stopped counting after that number. However, she mentioned that “it was very sad; people were crying in their cars.” Nevertheless, she is very happy to be able to help and support her clients on the difficult road of mourning.

Media coverage

Lucie Marsolais gave several interviews about her innovative concept. In fact, she was featured on Bernard Drainville’s radio show on 98.5 FM. In addition, the concept was presented on TVA Nouvelles as well as in an article in the Journal de Montréal and another article in Le Devoir newspaper, as previously mentioned. The video of the TVA Nouvelles newscast with Pierre Bruno can be found on YouTube. In such situations, we must be innovative. Mrs. Marsolais says that this solution could be adapted over time and that this is only the beginning of the “In-Car Condolences” concept. To add to this, other concepts will also be put in place in the coming weeks to reach more families and friends of the deceased.