Recommended Reading Selections for Funeral Services

When it comes down to personalizing a funeral service, one of the most important options to many are the reading selections that are chosen. Many people will want to select these ahead of time, with others letting their family and friends choose for them. It goes without saying that choosing your reading selections ahead of time is the best way to make a funeral your own, there are a lot of solid, traditional options available to those who haven’t come to a final decision just yet. 

Psalms/Hymns

Psalms and Hymns are an excellent way to honour your loved one. Often times these can be tailored to speak of specific temperaments or important aspects of the deceased’s life. Usually joyful and uplifting, these readings and songs are a perfect way to lighten the mood and keep everyone involved engaged and upbeat. Encouraging singing is always a way to get the crowd moving, while the psalms, being more subdued, allow everyone to catch their breath after a rousing chorus while conveying a particular message to your attendees.

Old Testament vs New Testament Readings

Many people find that Old Testament readings are generally less upbeat than the later, and infinitely breezier, New Testament readings. That being said, both have a wealth of inspirational verses and we recommend a mix of both to suit your tastes. Catholics will invariably find more common ground with Old Testament verses than other denominations, who generally prefer the feel of the New Testament.

Other Traditional Verses

While the majority of funeral services around here will be centered around christian and catholic traditions, we are always ready to embrace your own beliefs, even if they differ from the norm. We are always happy to include readings that you feel strongly about, no matter your religious views.

Unique Reading Selections

Personalizing readings will always be a way to thoroughly engage your attendees and pay proper respects to your loved ones. Songs, poems, or quotations they loved to say will remind everyone in attendance of good times in the past, with verses of their favourite literature going over well. This personal approach is becoming more popular, with many services now inching away from traditional and religious readings.

If you have any further questions or comments, or would like to ask us about some of our more popular readings, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at Thomas Gallagher Funeral Home. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are more than willing and able to help you out.