Funeral prayer cards offer comfort during difficult times. These small cards contain special prayers or verses to help people cope with loss. They serve as a way to remember loved ones and find peace.
The most common prayer found on funeral cards is the Serenity Prayer. This short but powerful prayer asks for acceptance, courage, and wisdom. It helps mourners find strength and hope as they deal with grief.
"God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."
You might also see The Lord's Prayer on funeral cards. This well-known Christian prayer is often used because it offers familiar words of comfort. Other options include personal favorites of the deceased or prayers specific to their faith. These cards aim to provide solace and support during a challenging time.
Funeral Prayer Cards
Funeral prayer cards offer a meaningful way to honor a loved one's memory. These small cards serve as keepsakes for those attending a memorial service.
History and Purpose
Funeral prayer cards have been used for generations to provide comfort and remembrance. They typically include the deceased's name, birth and death dates, and a prayer or inspirational message.
You'll often see these cards handed out at services or included in thank-you notes. Their purpose is to give mourners a tangible reminder of the person who has passed away.
Prayer cards can be religious or secular, depending on the family's preferences. They help preserve memories and allow you to cherish your loved one's life long after the funeral.
Design Elements
When creating a funeral prayer card, you have many design options. Most cards feature a photo of the deceased, allowing you to choose a favorite image that captures their essence.
You can select from various templates and then edit it on your home computer using Microsoft Word to create a unique, personalized design. Common elements include:
- "In loving memory" text
- Birth and death dates
- A meaningful prayer or quote
- Religious symbols (if appropriate)
- Decorative borders or backgrounds
Memorial cards can be simple or elaborate. You might opt for a traditional design or something more contemporary that reflects the person's personality.
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Content of Common Prayers & Verses
Funeral cards often contain prayers, poems, and verses that offer comfort and reflect the deceased's beliefs. These selections range from traditional religious prayers to inspirational quotes and non-denominational options.
Traditional Christian Prayers
The Lord's Prayer is a popular choice for funeral cards. It begins with "Our Father, who art in heaven" and asks for God's will to be done. Another common prayer is the Hail Mary, which is especially meaningful in Catholic services.
Psalm 23, starting with "The Lord is my shepherd," gives hope and comfort. It speaks of God's guidance and protection even in dark times. John 14:1-3 is also frequently used. It reminds mourners of Jesus' promise of a place in heaven.
These prayers offer solace by connecting grieving people to their faith. They remind readers of God's love and the promise of eternal life.
Inspirational Poems and Quotes
Poems and quotes can capture feelings of loss and hope. "Footprints in the Sand" is a well-loved poem about God's support during tough times. It describes a dream where a person sees two sets of footprints in the sand, representing their life journey with God.
"The Afterglow" by Helen Lowrie Marshall is another popular choice. It encourages people to remember the joy of the person's life, not just their death. "Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep" by Mary Elizabeth Frye offers comfort by suggesting the deceased lives on in nature and memories.
These verses help express complex emotions. They can provide a different kind of comfort than traditional prayers, especially for those who prefer less religious language.
Non-Denominational Options
For those who want non-religious options, there are many choices. "Life is but a stopping place" is a poem that views death as part of a larger journey. It can appeal to people with different beliefs about the afterlife.
The "Indian Prayer" (which isn't actually of Native American origin) asks to be remembered with happiness, not tears. It's a good fit for those who want to celebrate life rather than mourn death.
Indian Prayer
When I am dead
Cry for me a little
Think of me sometimes
But not too much.
Think of me now and again
As I was in life
At some moments it‘s pleasant to recall
But not for long.
Leave me in peace
And I shall leave you in peace
And while you live
Let your thoughts be with the living.
Some cards use simple, personal messages like "Always in our hearts" or "Forever loved, forever missed." These allow families to express their feelings without religious language. They can be comforting for people of any belief system or those who prefer a more personalized approach.
