Framework of Service

Every farewell tells a story, one step at a time.

There is no single way to create a meaningful farewell. Every funeral service is unique and reflects the wishes, beliefs and personality of the person being remembered.

The example provided here offers a general framework to help you explore the many ways a service can be arranged. You will also find some helpful suggestions for preparing and writing a eulogy.

You can also download a copy of the Framework of Service to use as a working document as you plan and record your choices.

Framework OF SERVICE

[MUSIC] Mourners assemble

[MUSIC] Pallbearers carry in Coffin

LIGHTING OF CANDLE

WELCOME -Celebrant / Minister/ MC

MAIN EULOGY
– by family or friend

PERSONAL TRIBUTES
– by extended family, work colleagues, friends

DVD PHOTO TRIBUTE

[MUSIC] TIME OF REFLECTION
-placing of rosemary or memorabilia

[MUSIC] COMMITTAL or LOWERING OF COFFIN

BLESSING / PRAYER / POEM
-Celebrant / Minister / MC

INVITATION TO WAKE/ REFRESHMENTS (if applicable)
– Celebrant /Minister /MC

[MUSIC] EXIT

Writing a Eulogy

Delivering a eulogy at the funeral of someone dear to you can feel both daunting and a privilege. A eulogy is very personal, and there is no single right way to write one. It is an opportunity to share something of who the person was, what they meant to you and to others, and the life they lived.

You don’t need to tell their whole life story or include every detail. Often, it is the personal memories, stories and little things that help bring someone to mind most clearly.

Here are some ideas to help you get started:

Think about length. Aim for around 3–7 minutes, and ideally no longer than 10 minutes.
Give yourself time. Begin by jotting down thoughts, memories and stories as they come to you. You can put them into order later.
Include some important parts of their life, such as family, work, places, experiences or achievements, without feeling you need to give a step-by-step chronology.
Share stories and memories. Anecdotes can capture someone’s personality and help others remember the person they knew and loved.
Think about what made them who they were — the people and things they loved, their interests, values, humour, habits and little quirks.
Write in your own voice. It doesn’t need to be formal. Reading your eulogy aloud as you work can help you hear how it sounds and judge its length.

On the Day

Make it easy to read. Type or print your eulogy in a clear, larger font, with plenty of spacing. There is no need to rely on memory.
Have a spare copy. Give a copy to the celebrant, minister or MC so it is available if needed.
Have a back-up person. You may like to ask someone beforehand if they would be willing to continue or read the eulogy for you if you find you are unable to do so on the day.
It’s okay to show emotion. Take your time, pause when you need to, and don’t worry if your emotions show. The people listening will understand.