Funeral Service Outline
This first version on this page is taken from the book of Common Worship and gives a general outline order for funeral services. There are many variations depending on your religious beliefs. We have included a Catholic Funeral Service outline on this page as well. Your funeral director or clergy can help you with the structure of the service that is suitable for your loved one.
The text in italics explains what happens in each stage of the ceremony.
We have also included a Typical Funeral Service Example for download.
Funeral Service Outline Order
The Gathering
- The coffin may be received at the door by the minister
- Sentences of Scripture may be used
- The minister welcomes the people and introduces the service
- A tribute or tributes may be made
- Authorized Prayers of Penitence may be used
- The Collect may be said here or in the Prayers
Readings and Sermon
- One or more readings from the Bible is used
- Psalms or hymns may follow the readings
- A sermon is preached
Prayers
The prayers usually follow this sequence:
- Thanksgiving for the life of the departed
- Prayer for those who mourn
- Prayers of Penitence (if not already used)
- Prayer for readiness to live in the light of eternity
Commendation and Farewell
- The deceased is commended to God with authorised words
The Committal
- The body is committed to its resting place with authorised words
The Dismissal
- The service may end with a blessing
Memorial Service Outline Order
A Memorial Service is very similar to a Funeral Service but there are one or two differences. For this reason we include an outline order for this service as well.
The Gathering
- The minister welcomes the people and introduces the service
- Sentences of Scripture may be used
- Authorized Prayers of Penitence may be used
- The Collect may be said here or in the Prayers
Readings and Sermon
- One or more readings from the Bible is used
- Psalms or hymns may follow the readings
- Other songs and readings may be used and a tribute or tributes made
- A sermon is preached, testimony may be given and an authorised Creed or Affirmation of Faith may be used
Prayers
The prayers usually follow this sequence:
- Thanksgiving for the life of the departed
- Prayer for those who mourn
- Prayers of Penitence (if not already used)
- Prayer for readiness to live in the light of eternity
Commendation and Dismissal
- The deceased is commended to God with authorised words
- The service may end with a blessing
Catholic Service Summary
This a basic outline of a catholic funeral service. There is an optional section which is only included if the funeral service is held during Mass. There is a link to a Catholic Funeral Planner on the Funeral Related Links page of this website which is very informative and well designed.
Processional Hymn/Music
Welcome
Tribute or Eulogy
Opening Prayers
1st Reading
Responsorial Psalm or Hymn/Music
2nd Reading
Gospel Acclamation
Gospel Reading
Homily
Prayer of the Faithful
Only if funeral service held during Mass
- Presentation of Gifts
- Offertory Hymn/Music
- Communion
- Communion Hymn/Music
Prayers of Farewell & Final Commendation
Recessional Hymn/Music