Help! I've never had to do this before.
Having worked in and around the church all of my adult life, I have lost count of how many times I have heard this statement. Organizing and outlining a funeral program is not something people tend to think about until the dreaded time comes. This site can help!
Services done right, however you choose
Graveside
Funeral
Takes place in a church or funeral home with the body present
- Capacity dependent upon location
- More time contingent
Memorial
A service intended to remember and honor the life of someone who has died
- Body is not present
- Less time contingent
Unfamiliar with what goes into a service? Our glossary clarifies all terms used on this site.
Asking the right questions
Plan your service and be more prepared for the details
Social Distancing
Enables loved ones to attend service in-person safely, but what protocols, if any, will be followed by the venue? Will the venue provide personal protective equiment or will the family be responsible? Is there a limit on the number of attendees due to space?
See what to askVideo conferencing
Allows more people to pay their respects no matter where they are, but who will be responsible for recording? Does the venue have the necessary equipment? What platform(s) are most appropriate or available for broadcast? Is a phone all we need?
See what to askAdditional details
What potential costs are involved? Who is in charge of designing the program? What is a program?
See what to ask