How To Write a Funeral Order Of Service

The loss of a loved one is never an easy ordeal to handle. However, even though you can’t see their smiles nor hear their laugh again, there’s still a wonderful way to commemorate their life. This can be achieved through a funeral order of service.

It’s important to note that a funeral order of service isn’t as simple as making a straightforward itinerary; a funeral order of service is more than the funeral schedule. Since this is a chance for you and your family to choose photos, share sentiments, and write sweet messages to the one departed, you should consider this gathering as a way to symbolise the life of a loved one. This means that it must be well-planned and coordinated.

What is a Funeral Order of Service?

In addition to the purpose behind a funeral order of service, this order is materialised through a booklet containing all of the funeral’s necessary information. Hence, it can be considered as an outline for the memorial service. This booklet will then be given to the deceased’s close friends and family members.

Writing a Funeral Order of Service

This article will present a guide on writing a funeral order of service that attendees will surely love. So, without further ado, here’s how to write a funeral order of service:

Choosing the Right Template

The template or design of the funeral order of service will serve as the foundation of the entire book. This means that choosing the right one is absolutely essential.

As a start, you may select a theme or template that reflects the personality of your loved one. For instance, if he/she was in the army, you may choose an army-themed design. Additionally, you may also decide if you want to opt for a traditional design or a more modern one.

Conveniently, there are plenty of websites you can source or use as a reference when it comes to choosing the right template. You can even hire the services of a professional designer to take the stress off your shoulder.

Designing the Front Cover

Now that you’ve settled on a template, the next thing you should consider is the front cover. More often than not, an order of service will have a simple front cover—a headshot photo of the deceased, either in colour or black and white. The photo can either be a recent or past photo, depending on how you want them to be remembered.

You can also include your loved one’s full name, their birthday, and the day they passed away on the cover page. Also, don’t forget to include the schedule and location of the memorial service. If there’s still room left, you may also include a famous quotation or your loved one’s favourite quote.

The Photograph

Going back to the photograph, if you don’t want to have a simple black and white photo of your loved one or this design would contradict your template, then it’s best if you gather family members or close friends of the deceased to help decide on which one to go for. By doing so, you’ll widen your options as they may have photos of your loved one that you don’t possess. Don’t worry, though, if one of the best options is a group photo, as you can simply crop it out.

As a tip, also go for a photo that reflects your loved one’s personality; it doesn’t have to be too formal. If your loved one loves the outdoors, for instance, then select a photo where they’re in nature. As you scan the photograph, remember to do so in high quality, which is around 300dpi.

The Content/Outline

After having an idea of the perfect cover page and deciding on the best photo, the next thing to do is to plan the next few pages.

There is no one-size-fits-all formula on the order of services, but usually, the service might flow as follows:

• The mourners will enter and assemble.
• After everyone is gathered, a particular speaker, either the wife, husband or those closest to the deceased, will provide a brief introduction, thanking everyone for attending.
• You may also include poems, prayers, and bible verses. This should be emphasised in the order of service.
• A breakdown of various speakers and readers who’ll gladly recall happy memories of the honoured person.
• The lyrics of various hymns or music may also be included in the booklet. This is done so people can sing and read along, which is important if they’re unfamiliar with the song. You may also include the title of the song and the composer, so guests can research and learn in advance.
• The closing music may also be the same as the one being played during the beginning. You may also include the title of these musical pieces.

Importantly, before funeral order of service printing can commence, you have to show your outline to the director or the person in charge of the memorial service. They may be able to offer advice or suggestions to help you.

The End Page

On the last page or the back part of the booklet, you can also include another image of the honoured person. This part of the order of service is also where you’ll write some words of thanks. If it’s part of your plan, you may also include the funeral reception’s location.

Final words

The loss of a loved one is always a difficult process for everyone involved. One way to celebrate how the deceased lived is through a funeral order of service. With this guide, you now have the needed know-how to craft one that’ll surely be appreciated by everyone.