First of all, it’s an honour to be asked to deliver a reading at a funeral. It means that the family trusts you to share words that will bring comfort and peace during a difficult time. Nevertheless, it can be a daunting experience.
We thought it would be helpful to give you some tips to help you prepare and deliver your reading with confidence.
1. Take Your Time
When it comes time to deliver the reading, take your time. There’s no need to rush through these words – they are meant to be savoured and absorbed. Pausing after certain phrases can allow everyone present to reflect on their meaning. If you find yourself becoming emotional, that’s okay. These are deeply personal and moving words, and it’s natural for them to touch your heart.
If you’re supporting someone who is delivering this reading, offer them encouragement. Sometimes, just knowing that others are there to support you can make a big difference.
2. Practise Beforehand
This might be an obvious statement but take some time to familiarise yourself with the passage. Read the scripture or text several times to fully understand its meaning. Reflect on how it might resonate with the family and those attending the service.
Practise reading it aloud. This will help you get comfortable with the flow of the words and identify any sections where you might need to slow down or pause.
3. Understand the Emotions
Acknowledge Your Feelings. It’s normal to feel emotional, especially if you were close to the person who passed away. Allow yourself to feel these emotions as you prepare. It can help you connect more deeply with the words you’ll be reading.
Consider the Audience. Think about what the words might mean to the grieving family and friends. Your reading can be a source of comfort for them, so approach it with empathy and compassion.
4. Practise Deep Breathing
Stay Calm and Steady. Deep breathing before and during the reading can help calm your nerves and keep your voice steady. Take a few deep breaths before you begin and remember to breathe slowly throughout.
5. Speak Clearly and at a Measured Pace
Pace yourself. There’s no need to rush through the reading. This is one of the most common mistakes to make with public speaking. Speak slowly and clearly, allowing each word to be heard and felt. Pausing after key phrases can give the audience time to reflect on the meaning.
Project your voice. Ensure that your voice carries across the room, especially if you’re in a large space or outdoors. Speak from your diaphragm to help maintain volume without straining.
6. Allow for Emotion
Remember It’s okay to be emotional. If you find yourself getting emotional, it’s perfectly natural. Take a moment if you need to, and then continue when you’re ready. The authenticity of your feelings can actually make the reading more powerful.
Have a backup plan. If you’re worried that emotions might overwhelm you, consider asking someone to stand by in case you need them to step in and finish the reading for you.
7. Use Natural Body Language
Stand or sit with a comfortable posture that helps you feel grounded. Avoid swaying or fidgeting, as this can distract from your words.
Make eye contact. If possible, make brief eye contact with the audience or family members. This can help create a connection and reinforce the sincerity of your reading.
8. Bring a Printed Copy
Keep a printed version with you. Even if you’ve memorised the passage, it’s a good idea to have a printed copy in case you get nervous or lose your place. Print it in a large, clear font to make it easy to read.
Highlight important points or words. You might want to underline or highlight key phrases where you plan to pause or emphasise certain words.
9. Honour the Moment
When you deliver the reading, focus on the moment and the significance of the words. This is a special act of service to those who are grieving, and your presence can provide comfort.
10. Thank The Family
By entrusting you with this role, the family has given you the privilege of contributing to the farewell of their loved one, and acknowledging this with a simple gesture or quiet word of thanks is both respectful and gracious.
You can thank the family either privately after the service or with a brief, respectful statement immediately following your reading, depending on the tone of the service. If you choose to thank them immediately, a short, sincere phrase such as, “Thank you for the honour of allowing me to speak today,” can add a personal touch without disrupting the flow of the ceremony.
Lastly, if you felt supported by friends or other loved ones during your preparation, thanking them as well can be a thoughtful way to conclude this difficult but important task. Showing gratitude to all involved brings a sense of closure and reinforces the bonds that help carry us through times of loss.
Final Thoughts
Delivering a eulogy or funeral reading is a deeply personal and meaningful act that requires preparation, empathy, and courage. By taking the time to practise, staying composed, and allowing yourself to connect emotionally with the words, you can offer comfort and peace to those in mourning.
Remember, the eulogy is not just a speech—it’s a gift of remembrance, honouring a life lived with love and respect.
