Advice on Funeral Readings

When planning a service, your funeral directors may talk to you about funeral readings. It is a common part of the ceremony.  This is often something that panics people because they are unsure of what to choose. The common fear is getting it wrong.

Often people will say they don’t want bible readings as the person that has passed did not go to church.  It is a common misconception that funeral readings have to be religious. So in this blog, we will aim to debunk any myths and leave you feeling confident about what you could choose.

How Do Funeral Readings Work?

In a service, there are often 2 or 3 readings. Anyone attending the service can deliver a reading. Often family members will choose to do the readings.  Some people are not comfortable speaking in public.  In this case the celebrant or minister will be more than happy to read on your behalf.  The readings should form some part of creating the lasting memories of the deceased, so the focus is on them.  While there are many traditional or common readings, there are no rules.  Song lyrics, poems, an excerpt from their favourite book, the choice is yours. All we would suggest is that the text is appropriate and respectful for all.

Examples of Religious Funeral Readings

For those who hold a faith, readings from the bible are a common inclusion.  Ecclesiastes 3:1-15 is often a comforting and popular choice.  The text speaks of a time for everything including the line ‘A time to be born, and a time to die.’   Psalm 23, The Lord is my Shepherd is often included. As a hymn with the same words is also available one or the other would be more appropriate.

Non-Religious Funeral Readings

Many famous writers have written about life and passing. Their words often bring great comfort to those who have recently lost a loved one.  William Shakespeare, James Joyce and Henry Van Dyke are some of the famous names on this list. But, you could pick anything that reminds you of the person you are remembering.

Funeral Readings from Poetry

Two of the most common choices from the poetry reading genre are as follows. ‘Do Not Stand at my Grave and Weep written by Mary Elizabeth Frye in 1932 and the Funeral Blues written by W H Auden in 1936.  This is more better known by the first line ‘Stop All the Clocks’.  The verse gained popularity after a poignant delivery from actor John Hannah. He reads it at the funeral of his character Matthew’s partner Gareth.

The Bottom Line

We would encourage you to remember that this is not a test or a question of right and wrong.  You could pen something yourself or read anything that reminds you of your loved one now.  Your funeral director will be on hand to give you advice but choose what you know they would have loved.  This is a chance to pay tribute and offer up loving memories for all who attend.