What should I write in a funeral order of service?

Funerals can be a difficult time, and having an order of service to guide attendees through the ceremony can be helpful. However, it is important to make sure that the order of service is a fitting tribute to the person being celebrated. Here are some things to consider including in an order of service to make it a meaningful keepsake that attendees will treasure for years to come.

The front page

First, keep the front page simple, featuring a lovely photo of the person being celebrated. It is important to choose a photo that captures their personality or character, rather than focusing on formality. Including the person’s name, birth and death dates, and a short sentimental message or quote can also be a nice touch.

Outlining the service

Funeral order of service should also outline the various components of the funeral ceremony. This will generally be decided by the close family of the deceased, in consultation with the funeral planners and the person conducting the ceremony.

Some common components to consider including in the order of service are:

A special song or sentimental piece of music to play as attendees enter the service.
A welcome and introduction from the person leading the ceremony.
Readings, which provide an opportunity for relatives or close friends to participate in the ceremony by reading something they have written.
Blessings or prayers, which may be shared or read by the vicar or priest leading the ceremony.
Music, hymns, and songs, which should be named and credited in the order of service.
A eulogy or tribute, which remembers the individual’s life, career, achievements, hobbies, and personality. This can be read out by a close family member or by the vicar/priest if necessary. A written version of the eulogy can also be included in the order of service as a keepsake.
Committal, which is the final opportunity to say goodbye to the deceased. This may include a short service or blessing depending on whether it is a cremation or burial.
Closing music, which should be named in the order of service.

Make it personal

To add a personal touch, consider including a collage of pictures showcasing the person’s life milestones and achievements. A timeline of events or messages and sentiments from family and friends can also be included. Poems, lyrics, or favourite memories shared by attendees can also add a special touch to the booklet.

What to consider when designing a funeral order of service

When designing a funeral order of service, you should consider a design that reflects the personality and style of the person being remembered. Here are some design tips to consider:

Keep it simple: A clean and simple design can be elegant and timeless.
Choose a colour scheme: You can choose colours that are meaningful to the person or their family, or go with a neutral palette that is appropriate for the occasion.
Use meaningful images: Photos of the person or meaningful images that represent their life can be used as a backdrop for the order of service.
Consider typography: The font and style of the text can convey a certain mood or tone. Choose a font that is easy to read and appropriate for the occasion.
Add personal touches: Including personal touches, such as quotes or messages from loved ones, can make the order of service more meaningful and personalised.

Ultimately the design should be respectful, elegant, and reflective of the person being remembered.

Summary

Overall, the order of service should be a bespoke tribute to the person being celebrated, reflecting their personality, achievements, and memories. Taking the time to create a meaningful order of service can provide a lasting keepsake that attendees can cherish for years to come.