The order of service is usually the first task in the list of things to do when crafting a funeral or memorial service. If you are having the OOS printed in the funeral brochure, this information needs to get to the printer ASAP.

Once the order of service is done then we have time to move onto the other elements of the service.

Example: Simple Order of Service.

• Opening Song

• Opening Comments

• Candle Lighting

• Eulogy

• Poem

• Tribute

• Reading

• Photo Montage

• Words of Comfort

• Prayer and Closing

• Recessional Song

Music is a very powerful part of the ceremony. It is important to chose music that reflects the nature and essence of the deceased. You may already know some favourite songs. It’s okay if you don’t. Choose songs that truly reflect the person and who they were, or reflect the tone you are trying to achieve.

You generally need about 4 songs.

1: A song for the opening

2: Songs for the Photo montage.

We work on one song per 30 images.

3: A song for the recessional or exit.

Either played when the coffin is taken from the chapel or when there is a curtain close.

There are a few ways to write a Eulogy.

Basically it is a snapshot of the deceased's life from the day they were born until the day they passed. The best eulogies tell lots of stories as stories are the way that we remember loved ones and keep their memories alive even after they are gone.

While a eulogy is not mandatory, it can be the most important part of the service. Many attendees may not know the deceased well, or may have only known the deceased for a portion of his or her life. A eulogy is an opportunity to share your love for the deceased and shed light on what he/she was like as a person. It also helps those who did know and love the deceased to come to grips with their grief.

You can use the template “How to Write a Eulogy” by clicking this link

The celebrant can do anything that you ask them to do. Including reading the Eulogy.

However, the best ceremonies are delivered by close family and friends. As difficult as this is, those attending the ceremony want to hear from you. This has become especially true now that we are live streaming. Many people are unable to attend due to the nature of the pandemic so it is even more important that those watching from far away get to see the family. This brings comfort and helps them to connect.

Questions to think about:

Who will read the Eulogy?

Who will share a poem or a reading?

Who will share a tribute?

This is a beautiful element of a ceremony. It is visually calming and is also something that you can participate in if you do not wish to speak. I talk about the power of light and the ritual of lighting a candle. While I speak those lighting the candles come, light a candle and sit down.. As many as 10 people can do this. A great thing for children or grandchildren to do.

This is also a good thing to do to represent loved ones who cannot be present at the ceremony.

Example: Corinne is lighting a flame on behalf of Brooke who cannot be here today. Brooke although you are not here in person, your light is shining brightly with us as we honour your sister Loretta.

Are there people who cannot attend who you would like the celebrant to mention in the live feed introduction?

Example: “Our love and thoughts go out to Jeans’ son Ross and his family in Queensland who are unable to make the ceremony today. Hi Ross, we are so glad that you have joined us via live streaming.

Thank You: Are there special people or organisations that have played a special part in the life of the deceased?

Who would you like to thank?

The role of the celebrant is to deliver the wishes of the deceased and the family of the deceased. At a minimum they will.

1: Open and welcome everyone on your behalf. Explain what will be happening in the ceremony and introduce those participating in the ceremony.

2: They will close the ceremony and offer words of comfort and provide space for everyone to say their last farewells.

3: They can deliver the Eulogy, read tributes and letters from those who are unable to.

The celebrant liases closely with the funeral director and staff to make sure that the ceremony is seemless and that the wishes of the family are followed.