order of service examples

Order of Service Examples: Creating a Meaningful Tribute

When planning a funeral or memorial service, creating an order of service is an essential step. This document serves as a guide for attendees, outlining the sequence of events and providing details about the service. If you’re looking for inspiration or guidance on creating an order of service, 

What Is an Order of Service?

An order of service, also known as a funeral program or memorial program, is a printed document that outlines the events and activities that will take place during a funeral or memorial service. It typically includes the order of events, such as musical selections, readings, tributes, and prayers, as well as information about the deceased, such as their name, date of birth, and date of passing.

Why Is an Order of Service Important?

An funeral order of service serves several important purposes:

1. Guidance for Attendees: It provides attendees with a guide to the service, helping them understand what to expect and how to participate.
2. Memorial Keepsake: It serves as a keepsake for attendees, allowing them to remember and honor the deceased long after the service has ended.
3. Personalization: It provides an opportunity to personalize the service, reflecting the personality, interests, and beliefs of the deceased.

Order of Service Examples

Creating an order of service can be a deeply personal and meaningful process. Here are some examples to inspire you as you create your own:

Example 1: Traditional Funeral Service

Cover Page

• Name of the deceased
• Dates of birth and passing
• A photograph of the deceased (optional)

Inside Page

• Welcome and opening remarks by the officiant
• Hymn or musical selection
• Reading of a passage or poem
• Eulogy or tribute
• Moment of silence
• Closing remarks and benediction
• Details for the reception or gathering following the service

Back Cover

• Acknowledgments and thank you messages
• Contact information for the family or funeral home

Example 2: Celebration of Life Service

Cover Page

• Name of the deceased
• Dates of birth and passing
• A meaningful quote or verse

Inside Page

• Welcome and opening remarks
• Sharing of memories and stories by family and friends
• Musical performances or readings
• Reflection and meditation time
• Closing thoughts and remembrances
• Details for a celebration or gathering following the service

Back Cover

• Information about memorial donations or charities
• Contact information for the family or organizing committee

Tips for Creating an Order of Service

• Personalize It: Include elements that reflect the personality, interests, and beliefs of the deceased.
• Keep It Simple: Ensure the order of service is easy to follow and understand.
• Include Contact Information: Provide contact information for the family or organizing committee in case attendees have questions or need assistance.
• Proofread Carefully: Double-check all information for accuracy and spelling errors before printing.
• Consider the Layout: Use a clear and readable font, and consider the overall design and layout of the document.
• Add Meaningful Touches: Consider adding photographs, quotes, or other elements that hold special meaning for the deceased and their loved ones.