Plan Your Loved One's Memorial Service With A Theme
Maybe your loved one passed away some time ago and you are just now planning his or her memorial service. Planning this type of service for your loved one should be a time of remembrance, a time of healing, and a time to say farewell. As you plan the memorial service for the person who has passed away, consider focusing on a theme.
For instance, maybe your loved one was well known for giving service to others at every opportunity. If so, the hymns you select for the service might include He Leadeth Me and Onward Christian Soldiers. If you are including scriptures in the memorial service, Hebrews 6:10, which talks about service, would be ideal. Another appropriate scripture would be Galatians 5:13, which addresses the importance of using one's time to give service to others.
If your loved one served in the armed forces and was devoted to his or her country, a patriotic theme would be an excellent choice. Hymns might include The Battle Hymn of the Republic and the national anthem. Scriptures that are appropriate for a patriotic-themed memorial service are Galatians 5:1, which talks about freedom. 1 Peter 2:17 which talks about respect for authority would be a good choice, too.
No matter which theme you select, meet with others who were close to your loved one so they can help to plan the memorial service. For instance, children of the deceased might want to share stories of times spent with your loved one. Maybe he or she had friends who were like family members. Those individuals might appreciate being asked to speak, too.
When you meet together to plan the service, think about deciding what to do about flowers. For instance, you might want to tell people that, in lieu of flowers, a donation to a favorite charity would be appreciated. If people still bring flowers, think about asking somebody to take them to an assisted living facility or to a battered women's shelter.
If you want food to be served after the memorial service, discuss how you want that to be handled. For instance, you could arrange for catering services. Another idea would be to plan a potluck meal. Either way, be sure to tell those who will be attending the service that food will be served.
If there are any hurt feelings among those who are in the planning group, think about setting time aside before the service is planned to resolve those issues. Consider taking the lead of the discussion, or ask your ecclesiastic leader to do that. That part of your planning might turn out to be the most important thing you do for your deceased loved one.
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