> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://tools.virtualmemorialguide.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://tools.virtualmemorialguide.org/memorial-elements/opening.md).

# Opening

People arrive, and settle in. The host brings the attendees into an appropriate frame of mind, and introduces the rest of the program.

### **Elements (in suggested order)**

[**Arrival:**](/memorial-elements/opening/arrival.md) people arrive in the online conference room and prepare for the memorial

[**Formal Start & Invocation:**](/memorial-elements/opening/formal-start.md) formal opening of the memorial, naming the honoree, and invoking G-d, a divine presence, or a positive force to create a transition into a sacred space & time

[**Orientation:**](/memorial-elements/opening/orientation.md) welcoming everybody (especially the family of the deceased), describing the program, and setting expectations around conduct and technology