How to Write a Thank You Card for a Pastor Who Preached at a Funeral

Thank clergy for assistance with a funeral.

The pastor who preaches at a funeral performs a valuable service for the bereaved family, shepherding them through the funeral ceremony and providing comfort and guidance. Sometimes the pastor is a longtime family friend, but she may also be a stranger called upon to oversee this important ceremony. In this latter case, the pastor works to put together a suitable tribute to a person he never knew. Proper funeral etiquette requires sending a note or card to thank the pastor for his services.

Things You'll Need

• Pen
• Plain card or paper

Instructions

1. Choose a plain white card or one with a simple thank-you sentiment. Your funeral home may provide you with suitable cards or notes.

2. Add a personal note of thanks to any pre-printed card. Funeral Wise suggests two to three sentences. Thank the pastor for his assistance during your time of grief. If he performed any special service, such as counseling a family member or conducting more than one service, mention this.

3. Close with a formal closing, such as "respectfully" or "respectfully yours," and sign your name. Address the envelope by hand to the pastor in care of his church.

Tips & Warnings

• If you send an honorarium in payment of the pastor's services, send it separately from the thank you note.

• Rochester Funeral Homes recommends you send your thank-you card within two weeks of the funeral.

References

• FuneralWise: Funeral Etiquette --- Sending Thank You Notes
• Rochester Funeral Homes: Funeral Etiquette --- Thanking Clergy