When it comes to creating an order of service for a loved one’s funeral, it can often be quite overwhelming. You may be struggling to grasp how the service should go, or how to honour the deceased’s memory as they would have wished. To help you, we have put together this simple guide.
For help planning a funeral service, or for any other advice, please contact our compassionate team of funeral directors today.
What Is An Order Of Service?
The order of service is a printed booklet which outlines the structure and events of a funeral. It can help to make sure the service goes smoothly, and also provides the words for any hymns or readings. The front page often displays a photo of the deceased, along with their name and date of birth. You do not have to have an order of service, but it can be useful to share important details and as a keepsake to remember the day.
Key Elements
Although every order of service will be unique, here are some key elements that are usually featured on the front or within its pages:
- The full name, and any nicknames, of the deceased
- Their date of birth and date of death
- The date, time and location of the funeral
- Any information about the Wake, including date, time and location
- Images of your loved one
- The order of events (for example, when the eulogy will be read)
- The Lord’s Prayer for religious families
Personalising The Order Of Service
Incorporating a few personal touches to the order of service can make a big difference. A few simple but impactful ideas include adding some important images, such as wedding photos, or even decorating the booklets to reflect their personality. You could also write the text in their favourite colour. Moreover, if your loved one was known for saying or abiding by a particular phrase, you could feature this on the front as a meaningful tribute.
Ask Your Family & Friends Of The Deceased For Guidance
Creating an order of service by yourself may be quite challenging. So, be sure to check in with your friends and family throughout the process to alleviate any stress. They may also be able to offer some suggestions for readings and proofread the final version before it is sent to print.
Please contact Cockwell’s Funeral Services today for any additional information or guidance.