What is a Funeral Program
A funeral program (sometime referred to as a memorial service bulletin or memorial program) is a printed document outlines the events of the funeral or memorial service, and commemorates the deceased’s life.
The Cover
- Photos of Deceased
- A descriptive title of the Funeral Program such as “In Remebrance” or “Celebrating Life” “Homegoing Celebration”
- Location; Date; Time; Name of Service Leader
- Birth Date and Death Date
Order of Service
The Order of Service serves as a guide to the funeral or memorial service. Below is an example of a “traditional” funeral Order of Service.
- Prelude
- Procession – Group Entrance
- Prayer Moment of Silence (Remembrance)
- Reading (Scriptural, Poem, favorite excerpt)
- Hymn / Song of Comfort
- Acknowledgments (family members, hospice, community members)
- Obituary Reading
- Eulogy/Tributes
- Benediction/Closing - Short invocation or blessing
- Recessional (Song/ Procession or “exiting” of the service)
Obituary
An obituary is a notice or announcement, of a person’s death, to include an account of their life. Obituaries are an important part of the funeral program and are the last words written about the deceased’s life. You can find resources on “How to Write an Obituary” and free obituary templates on the internet.
Funeral Poems/Eulogies/Tributes
Poems are used in funeral programs to bring comfort to the grieving, or to help celebrate the life of the deceased. Eulogies, tributes and funeral poems can be included to help personalize the program. Review bereavement and funeral poems from the internet or your funeral director.
Special Acknowledgments /Thank You Notes
This section of the funeral program expresses gratitude to friends, family and organizations that have shown special support in your loved one’s life.
