Programs & order of service
Simple one-page funeral program
By Lindiwe Khumalo · 4 min read · Updated 24 June 2026
Not every funeral needs a full booklet. For a small service, a graveside-only ceremony, or when you are simply short on time, a single-page program does the job well. This page gives you a simple one-page funeral program you can fill in and print in minutes.
A one-page program fits everything mourners need - the person's name, the order of service and a short note of thanks - on a single A5 card. It is quick to make and quick to print.
Fill in the [PLACEHOLDERS] below and you are ready to print.
When a one-page program is enough
A simple single-page program suits:
- A small or intimate service.
- A graveside-only ceremony with no church service.
- Short notice, when there is no time for a full booklet.
- A tight budget, since one A5 card per person costs very little.
If you want photos, a full obituary and a poem, use the full four-page template instead. For everything else, one page is plenty.
The one-page template
Copy this onto a single A5 page:
In loving memory of
[FULL NAME]
[DATE OF BIRTH] - [DATE OF PASSING]
[small photo]
[ORDER OF SERVICE](/templates/order-of-service-funeral/)
Service at [VENUE], [DATE] at [TIME]
Officiating: [PASTOR]
1. Opening hymn [HYMN]
2. Scripture & prayer [NAME]
3. Tribute [NAME]
4. Obituary [NAME]
5. Message [PASTOR]
6. Acknowledgements family
7. Closing hymn [HYMN]
8. Procession to [CEMETERY]
The [SURNAME] family thanks you for your
love and support. May God bless you.
That is a complete program on one side of a card.
Printing a single-page program
- At home - print on A5, or print two per A4 sheet and cut down the middle.
- Print shop or PostNet - bring a PDF; they can print on card for a sturdier feel.
- Paper choice - a slightly heavier paper (160gsm or card) feels more dignified than thin printer paper, but plain paper is perfectly fine.
Print a few extra for mourners who would like to keep one.
Free tools for a one-page program
You do not need special software:
- Word or Google Docs - type the text and centre it on one A5 page.
- Canva - free single-card funeral templates you can edit in your browser.
- Your phone - even the Google Docs app can produce a clean A5 card in an emergency.
Export to PDF before printing so the layout stays fixed, and save a copy in case you need to reprint for a memorial later.
Frequently asked questions
Can a funeral program be just one page?
Yes. A single-page A5 program works well for a small service, a graveside-only ceremony, or when you are short on time. It fits the person's name, the order of service and a note of thanks on one card, which is all mourners really need.
What goes on a simple funeral program?
A simple program carries the person's name, dates, a small photo, the order of service, and a short line of thanks from the family. You can leave out the full obituary, extra photos and poems that appear in a longer booklet.
How do I print a one-page funeral program?
Print it on A5, or fit two copies on an A4 sheet and cut down the middle. A print shop or PostNet can print on card for a sturdier feel. Heavier paper looks more dignified, but plain paper is perfectly acceptable.
Is a simple program disrespectful?
Not at all. A clean, simple program is always appropriate and is often the most dignified choice. What matters is that the names and details are correct and the program is easy to read, not how many pages it has.
What size paper is a one-page funeral program?
A5 is the usual size for a single-page program. You can print one per A5 sheet, or fit two copies on an A4 sheet and cut down the middle. Slightly heavier paper or card feels more dignified, but plain paper is fine.
