An outline order of service for a funeral

This is the official Church of England service order

The Gathering
1  The coffin may be received at the door by the minister.
2  Sentences of Scripture may be used.
3  The minister welcomes the people and introduces the service.
4  A tribute or tributes may be made.
5  Authorized Prayers of Penitence may be used.
6  The Collect may be said here or in the Prayers.

Readings and Sermon
7  One or more readings from the Bible is used.
Psalms or hymns may follow the readings.
8  A sermon is preached. This may include a tribute if not already given

Prayers
9  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
10  The dead person is commended to God with authorized words.

The Committal
11  The body is committed to its resting place with authorized words.

The Dismissal
12  The service may end with a blessing.

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