What is the Order of Service for a Funeral?

As humans, we’ve mourned at least one person—a relative, friend, or colleague—during our lifetime. Funerals, thus, are an integral part of the human experience.

There’s a common denominator that many people may not care to imagine the work that goes on behind a funeral procession. It’s usually not a conscious thought as with other occasions such as birthdays, weddings, etc. However, the truth remains that planning for a funeral employs as much rigour and attention to detail as other events to turn out a success.

For this piece, let’s discuss what you need to know about the order of service for a funeral. So, read on.

An order of service can be described simply as every item or event that’ll take place at a funeral. Outlined in a pamphlet or booklet, it’s usually handed to attendees at a funeral to help them follow up on events and know what to expect next.

Most orders of service usually take the same format except for a few variations. For example, some people may opt out of some items as they suit their taste and cultural or religious views. In other cases, some may choose to add custom items to theirs. Ultimately, we’ve highlighted the essential items that make up a standard order of service for a funeral below:

• Introduction/Opening Prayer: Usually done by the officiating priest to officially welcome attendees and declare the commencement of the event. 
• Spiritual Reading: Also done by the spiritual leader or a relative of the deceased. Spiritual readings typically feature philosophical quotes, a short poem, or religious scriptural texts.
• Musical Selection: Include hymns/songs carefully picked by family, friends, or even the deceased before passing and performed by all at the funeral.
• Eulogies: Features goodwill messages done by family and close friends to remember the deceased.
• Slide Show: A picture slide or video show documenting the life and times of the deceased. Usually, a timeline of events leading from the deceased’s birth to their eventual death.
• Thank You and Acknowledgements: A family member takes time to thank all those who honoured the event and bid farewell.
• Closing Prayer: Done by the priest to mark the event’s official closing.
• Recessionals: The process of leaving the venue.

At Newrest Funerals, we help you set the perfect procession to bid farewell to your deceased loved ones. Hand over the entire planning of your funerals to only true experts in the business.

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