The memorial services are the perfect opportunity for the deceased’s loved ones to comfort each other and to bid farewell to their friend, relative or associate who has passed on. These events can take many forms as influenced by regional, religious, or even personal traditions and wishes. Presenting each attendee with a funeral program will make sure they know what to expect.
This handout may be a couple of pages long or it may simply be a single sheet. It should always contain at least the most basic information about the honoree, such as their complete name, dates of both birth and death, as well as the location and time of the service. Most people also opt to include a favorite picture of the deceased on the cover.
The inside of the document will provide the order of proceedings from start to finish. Each song that is played, passage or poem that is read, should also have their author identified along with the name of who will be presenting them. Sometimes the family chooses to include a copy of the obituary so that all interested guests will have a copy.
This order of service helps the minister or officiant maintain control over the event’s flow, keeping everything on time. This is also an effective way for attendees to physically see what is scheduled to happen next. Since the details of each tribute will be listed, it allows mourners to revisit any tributes they found especially comforting.
A feeling of closure is something a lot of mourners get from these handouts. Some just need some physical token of the occasion to help them understand its finality. There are many ways to grieve and for many, that entails using mementos as a way to cope with their loss.
There are multiple reasons why having an available funeral program available at the services is important. It not only pays homage to the deceased, but it helps those in attendance follow the proceedings. For many individuals, these handouts are keepsakes that assist them in coping with their own sense of loss.