Order Of Service Booklet For A Contemporary Funeral

Introduction

Losing a loved one is one of the most challenging experiences we face. Planning a funeral can be daunting, especially when it comes to creating an order of service booklet.

This guide aims to ease some of that burden by offering practical advice on designing a contemporary order of service booklet that honours your loved one’s life and offers solace to those in mourning.

After reading the article please consider our collection of personalised order of service booklets.

Article Contents

Understanding the Purpose of the Order of Service Booklet

The order of service booklet serves several purposes. It provides a structured outline of the funeral proceedings, ensuring that attendees know what to expect. It also offers a tangible keepsake for friends and family to remember the day and the person who has passed away.

Additionally, it can be a means to share special memories, readings, and music that reflect the personality and wishes of the deceased.

Essential Elements to Include

Cover Page

The cover page sets the tone for the entire booklet. It typically includes:

• The name of the deceased
• Birth and death dates
• A photograph of the deceased
• The date, time, and location of the service
• A short, meaningful phrase or quote

Welcome Message

A welcome message from the family or the person leading the service can be comforting. This message can thank attendees for their presence and support, and briefly highlight what they can expect during the service.

Order of Service

This section outlines the sequence of events. It usually includes:

• Opening music or hymn
• Welcome and introduction
• Readings or poems
• Eulogies
• Reflections
• Musical tributes
• Closing remarks
• Committal or final farewell
• Closing music

Being clear and concise in this section helps attendees follow along and participate appropriately.

Hymns and Songs

Including the lyrics of hymns or songs allows everyone to join in, even if they are not familiar with the music. Choose pieces that were meaningful to the deceased or that reflect their personality and beliefs.

Readings and Poems

Readings and poems can offer comfort and reflect the essence of the person being remembered. Select pieces that hold significance to the deceased or their loved ones.

Popular choices include excerpts from religious texts, literature, or personalised messages from family members.

Eulogies

Eulogies are heartfelt tributes that celebrate the life of the deceased. It can be helpful to include the names of those delivering eulogies in the booklet.

This section can also feature written versions of the eulogies for those who may struggle to hear or fully absorb the spoken words.

For help writing a eulogy please see our article – How To Write A Eulogy For A Funeral.

Photographs

Including photographs can personalise the booklet and evoke fond memories. Consider adding a collage or a few select images that capture important moments and milestones in the deceased’s life.

Thank You Note

A thank you note from the family acknowledges the support and presence of those attending the service. This can be a simple message expressing gratitude for the love and support received during this difficult time.

Designing the Booklet

Choosing the Right Style

For a contemporary funeral, a minimalist design often works best. Use clean lines, modern fonts, and a simple colour palette. Avoid overly ornate designs unless they reflect the deceased’s personal style.

Paper and Printing

Select high-quality paper that feels substantial but is not too heavy. The booklet should be easy to handle and read. Consider professional printing services to ensure a polished finish, but also explore eco-friendly options if sustainability is a concern.

Layout and Typography

A clear and readable layout is essential. Use a font size that is comfortable to read and ensure there is enough white space to avoid a cluttered appearance.

Serif fonts are often easier to read in print, while sans-serif fonts can offer a modern look.

Personal Touches

Adding personal touches can make the booklet more meaningful. Consider including a handwritten note, a favourite quote, or a signature from the deceased. These small details can provide comfort and a sense of connection.

Digital Options

In today’s digital age, offering a digital version of the order of service booklet can be considerate for those who cannot attend in person.

A PDF version can be emailed or shared on social media, allowing distant friends and family to participate in the memorial.

For more ideas about digital options please see our article – Incorporating Technology In A Funeral Order Of Service Booklet.

Sample Templates

Providing templates can be extremely helpful. Here are a few sample layouts to consider:

Classic Template

• Cover: Photo, name, dates, and a quote
• Page 1: Welcome message
• Page 2: Order of service
• Page 3: Hymns and songs
• Page 4: Readings and poems
• Page 5: Eulogies
• Page 6: Photographs
• Page 7: Thank you note

Modern Template

• Cover: Minimalist design with a photo and name
• Page 1: Welcome message and order of service combined
• Page 2: Hymns and songs
• Page 3: Readings and poems
• Page 4: Eulogies
• Page 5: Thank you note
• Page 6: Collage of photographs

Tips for Personalisation

Incorporating Favourite Things

Consider incorporating elements that reflect the deceased’s passions and interests. If they loved gardening, include floral motifs or photos of their garden.

If they were a musician, incorporate musical notes or images of their favourite instrument.

Quotes and Sayings

Quotes that resonate with the deceased’s philosophy or that were personal favourites can add a deeply personal touch. These can be placed throughout the booklet or as a focal point on the cover or within the pages.

For a selection of quotes please see our article – Meaningful Quotes For A Funeral Order Of Service Booklet.

Involving Family and Friends

Encourage family and friends to contribute. They might have favourite memories, photos, or quotes that can be included. This collaborative approach can make the booklet a richer tribute and provide comfort through shared remembrance.

Conclusion

Creating an order of service booklet for a contemporary funeral is a meaningful way to honour and remember a loved one.

By carefully selecting elements that reflect their life and personality, you can create a booklet that offers comfort and serves as a lasting tribute.

While the process can be emotional, it is also an opportunity to celebrate a life well-lived and to provide solace to those in mourning.