What Are Funeral Pamphlets Called? Program vs Bulletin vs Order of Service

Families often hear multiple names for the same printed handout—“pamphlet,” “program,” “bulletin,” “order of service,” and more. The terms can feel confusing when you’re trying to choose a template, talk to a printer, or coordinate with a place of worship. This guide explains the differences in clear language, shows when each term fits, and helps you pick a format fast. Customs vary by region and faith tradition, so if you’re unsure, confirm the preferred wording with the officiant or venue before printing.

Quick definitions (at a glance)

Funeral program

The most widely used term for the printed handout at a service. It typically includes the order of service, names of participants, a short obituary or biography, selected readings, and acknowledgements. Formats range from a simple single-fold to multi-page booklets.

Funeral pamphlet

Used interchangeably with “program” in many places. People often say “pamphlet” when they mean a simple, single-fold handout printed at home or by a local shop.

Funeral bulletin

Common in church settings. A “bulletin” is usually a single sheet or folded page listing the service parts, hymns, and readings. Some churches also include weekly notices.

Memorial program / Celebration of life program

Same purpose as a funeral program, but the tone is often more personal and less formal—photo tributes, favorite quotes, and stories are common.

Order of service

The sequence of events (welcome, readings, music, eulogy, closing). It may be a section inside a program or a one-page handout on its own.

Memorial/prayer card

A small keepsake with a photo, dates, and a short verse or prayer. Cards are handed out at the service, placed in a basket at the reception, or mailed later.

Simple comparison

Term	Typical size/format	Primary use	Choose it when…
Funeral program	Single-fold, tri-fold, multi-page	Full ceremony details + tribute sections	You want flexibility for photos, readings, and bio
Funeral pamphlet	Single-fold	Concise overview of the service	You need something quick and simple to print
Funeral bulletin	Single sheet or folded page	Church-style outline with hymns/readings	The service uses a traditional church bulletin
Memorial/celebration program	Any format	Personal, story-forward content	Gathering is less formal or outside a church
Order of service (one-pager)	Single sheet	Sequence of events only	Short services or paired with keepsake cards
Memorial/prayer card	Small card (e.g., 2.5″×4.25″)	Pocket keepsake with brief text	You want a simple memento to accompany the service

Which term should you use?

• For printers and template searches, “funeral program” is the safest, most widely understood term.
• In church contexts, “bulletin” may be expected.
• For less formal gatherings, “memorial program” or “celebration of life program” fits naturally.
• If you only need the schedule, print an order of service one-pager.
• Because expectations vary, it’s wise to confirm the preferred term with the officiant or venue before you finalize the file.

Program formats at a glance (pick what fits your content)

The right format depends on how much text and how many photos you plan to include, your printing method, and how quickly you need the programs.

Single-fold (classic, fast to print)

• Four panels: front cover, two inside panels, back cover.
• Ideal when you have one strong cover photo and concise text.
• Prints reliably at home; easy for local shops.

Tri-fold brochure (more panels, no staples)

• Six panels provide extra space for short readings, lyrics, or photo captions.
• Folds compactly and looks familiar to most guests and printers.

Gatefold (elegant “reveal”)

• Opens like doors to a center spread—excellent for a full-bleed photo collage.
• Keep key faces and text away from fold lines.

Graduated/stacked tabs (easy navigation)

• Offset tabs label sections (Order of Service, Obituary, Photos, Thanks).
• Helpful when multiple speakers or readings make the program longer.

For a deeper look at pros and cons of each layout, see funeral program layouts (single-fold, tri-fold, gatefold, and graduated).

What to include (regardless of what you call it)

Most programs—whether you name them a program, pamphlet, or bulletin—share the same core building blocks:

• Full name (include preferred nickname if used publicly)
• Dates of birth and passing
• Service details (location, date, start time)
• Order of service with music/readings and names of participants (officiant, readers, pallbearers)
• Short obituary or biography with meaningful milestones
• Selected readings (scripture, poetry, or non-religious readings)
• Acknowledgements to thank attendees and caregivers
• Donations line if applicable (“In lieu of flowers…”)
• Optional: photo collage, favorite quotes, reception details, or a QR code to a photo album or livestream

If you want ready-to-use text you can paste into Microsoft Word, see funeral program wording examples. To confirm the order for your tradition, use the funeral order of service guide

Paper, sizes, and print tips

Choosing paper and size early prevents layout headaches later. Most families print on US Letter and fold to half-letter, but there are other options that work well.

• Common sizes: US Letter (8.5″×11″) folded to 8.5″×5.5″ is the simplest at home. Multi-page booklets use several Letter sheets stapled at the fold.
• Paper weight: For home printing, 28–32 lb works well. At a shop, ask for 60–80 lb text for programs or 80–100 lb cover for a sturdier feel.
• Finish: Matte reduces glare under church lighting. Gloss makes photos pop but can reflect light.
• Margins: Keep at least 0.25″ from edges and fold lines. Allow extra space for staples in multi-page booklets.
• Proofing: Print one test copy to check panel breaks and image placement before running the full stack.

For deeper specs, see the funeral program sizes and printing guide.

Photo resolution and cropping basics

Clear, well-placed photos make the handout feel personal and polished.

• Use the highest-resolution original you have. Aim for 150–300 dpi at the printed size.
• Avoid heavy crops on faces. Keep important features away from folds and edges.
• Scan physical photos at a print-quality setting and clean dust or scratches.
• Be consistent. If photo sources vary, consider black-and-white or a subtle contrast adjustment so images feel cohesive.

For pixel targets and examples, use the funeral program photo quality guide.

Make it in Microsoft Word (DOCX)

You can build a complete program in Word without special software.

• Start from a DOCX template. Replace placeholder text and drop in your photos using Insert → Pictures to maintain sizing.
• Use Styles for headings and body text so fonts and spacing stay consistent.
• Control breaks. Insert page breaks for multi-page programs and check headers/footers.
• Lock the layout. Export to PDF before sending to a print shop.

Step-by-step instructions are in how to make a funeral program in Word.

When a memorial or prayer card makes more sense

If the service is brief—or you want a small keepsake alongside a simple one-page order of service—a memorial/prayer card is a good choice. Typical elements include a photo, full name, dates, and a short verse or quote. Cards are easy to hand out at the door, place in a reception basket, or mail to relatives who couldn’t attend.

If you’re ready to build a full program today, start with a .DOCX you can edit immediately: celebration of life program template (Microsoft Word).

Etiquette and final checks

A few careful reviews prevent last-minute fixes.

• Names and titles: Confirm spellings, honorifics, and role titles (Officiant, Celebrant, Reader).
• Participants and order: Verify speaker sequence, music cues, and pallbearers before printing.
• Cultural and faith customs: Music, readings, and symbols vary. When in doubt, confirm with the officiant.
• Accessibility: Use readable body text (11–12 pt) and strong contrast.
• Final proof: Have two people review, then run a single test print.

For more guidance, see funeral program etiquette: do’s and don’ts.

Copy-ready wording blocks (paste into your program)

Acknowledgements

• The family of {{Name}} thanks you for your love, prayers, and support.
• With gratitude, we acknowledge the compassionate care of {{Caregiver/Hospice}}.

Donations (in lieu of flowers)

• In memory of {{Name}}, donations may be made to {{Organization}}.
• If you wish, please consider a gift to {{Cause}} in {{Name}}’s honor.

Reception line

• A reception will follow at {{Location}}. All are welcome.

Order of service label

• Order of Service

Program roles

• Officiant: {{Name}} • Readers: {{Names}} • Pallbearers: {{Names}}

Short non-religious reading (placeholder)

• “We remember {{Name}} with gratitude for a life shared—may our stories keep their memory bright.”

Cover title options you can copy

Use one clear title on the cover. Choose the style that matches your service and confirm wording with the officiant if needed.

• In Loving Memory of {{Name}}
• A Celebration of Life for {{Name}}
• Remembering {{Name}}
• A Service of Remembrance for {{Name}}
• Honoring the Life of {{Name}}
• {{Name}} • {{Year–Year}}
• Funeral Service for {{Name}}
• Memorial Service for {{Name}}

Back panel or final note examples

These short lines work on the back panel or final page. Personalize as needed.

• The family of {{Name}} thanks you for your love, prayers, and support.
• With gratitude, we acknowledge the compassionate care of {{Caregiver/Hospice}}.
• Please join us for a reception at {{Location}} following the service.
• In lieu of flowers, gifts may be made to {{Organization}} in memory of {{Name}}.
• May our stories keep {{Name}}’s memory bright.

Frequently asked questions

Is a funeral pamphlet the same as a funeral program?
In most settings, yes. “Pamphlet” is a common way people refer to a printed program, often a simple single-fold handout.

When should I call it a bulletin?
“Bulletin” is widely used in churches for a one-page or folded outline with hymns and readings. Ask the church what term they prefer.

What’s the difference between a program and an order of service?
The order of service is the sequence of events. It typically appears inside a program but can be printed alone for short services.

Which format prints fastest at home?
A single-fold program on Letter paper is quick, reliable, and easy to assemble.

How many programs should I print?
Start with one per attendee, plus 10–15 extras for late arrivals and keepsakes. Print a small second batch if you run out.

What font size is easiest to read?
Use at least 11–12 pt for body text and larger for headings. Keep strong contrast between text and background.

Can I include a QR code?
Yes—link it to a photo album, memorial page, or livestream. Place it on the back panel or an inside corner.

How do I list pallbearers and participants?
Use a simple line such as: “Officiant: {{Name}} • Readers: {{Names}} • Pallbearers: {{Names}}.” Confirm spellings with each person.

Do I need permission to reprint poems or lyrics?
Some texts are public domain; others require permission. Use licensed or public-domain readings, or brief excerpts with attribution. Confirm with the officiant if unsure.

What paper should I request at a print shop?
For a sturdy handout, 80–100 lb cover with a matte finish reduces glare and feels substantial.