The “Committal” is the most final, and often the most difficult, moment of a funeral service.1 Whether you are at a cemetery, a mausoleum, or a columbarium, this is the moment where the body is physically laid to rest and entrusted to the earth.
For the pastor, the goal at the graveside is brevity and dignity.
The family is often emotionally exhausted by this point. The weather might be poor. Standing times should be short. You need words that are decisive, hopeful, and comforting without dragging on.
Below are 5 distinct committal prayer examples ranging from the traditional liturgy to contemporary scripts for specific situations.
1. The Traditional “Ashes to Ashes” Committal
This is the classic Christian liturgy used by Anglicans, Methodists, and Presbyterians. It carries a weight of history and authority that many families find comforting.
The Script:
“Forasmuch as it has pleased Almighty God, in His wise providence, to take out of this world the soul of our deceased brother/sister, [Name], we therefore commit [his/her] body to the ground.
Earth to earth, ashes to ashes, dust to dust.
We do this looking for the blessed hope and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ, who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body, according to the working whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto Himself.
Let us pray:
Lord, support us all the day long, until the shadows lengthen, and the evening comes, and the busy world is hushed, and the fever of life is over, and our work is done. Then in Thy mercy, grant us a safe lodging, and a holy rest, and peace at the last. Amen.”
2. The “Sure and Certain Hope” Committal (Evangelical/Baptist)
This script focuses less on the physical body and more on the promise of the resurrection. It is uplifting and focuses on the future.
The Script:
“Friends, we are standing on holy ground today. Not because this soil is special, but because a seed is being planted.
The Bible tells us in 1 Corinthians 15: ‘So also is the resurrection of the dead. The body is sown in corruption, it is raised in incorruption. It is sown in dishonor, it is raised in glory. It is sown in weakness, it is raised in power.’
Therefore, with dignity and with reverence, we commit the body of [Name] to the earth as a final resting place for the vessel, but we rejoice that [his/her] spirit is alive in the presence of God.
We are not saying ‘goodbye’ forever. We are saying ‘goodnight’ until the morning comes. We commit [Name] to God’s care, waiting for that day when the trumpet shall sound and the dead in Christ shall rise first.
Let us pray:
Father, we thank You that the grave has lost its victory. We thank You that death has lost its sting. Keep this family in that hope today. Amen.”
3. A Short Committal for a Difficult/Tragic Death
When a death is tragic (unexpected, young age, or difficult circumstances), flowery language can feel hollow. This script is simple, raw, and trusts entirely in God’s mercy.
The Script:
“We have come to the edge of what we can understand. In this moment of deep sorrow, words often fail us. But God does not fail us.
We entrust [Name] into the hands of a God who is more merciful than we can imagine, and who loves [Name] more than we ever could.
We commit [his/her] body to the earth. We commit [his/her] spirit to the Almighty. And we commit this grieving family to the God of all comfort.
Let us pray:
Lord Jesus, You wept at the grave of Your friend Lazarus. You know this pain. Walk with this family through the valley of the shadow of death. Be their strength when they have none left. We leave [Name] in Your arms. Amen.”
4. The “Nature & Creation” Committal
Best for an outdoor lover or a non-denominational service where the family finds connection through nature.
The Script:
“God formed us from the dust of the earth, and it is to the earth that our bodies return. There is a season for everything—a time to be born, and a time to die.
Today, the season of [Name]‘s life on earth has concluded. We return [him/her] to the care of Creation, resting in the peace of the hills and the earth that God made.
As the sun sets on this life, we trust that the sun is rising on [his/her] eternal life.
Let us pray:
Creator God, receive the spirit of our friend. Let the winds and the trees remind us of Your presence. Grant [Name] eternal rest, and let light perpetual shine upon [him/her]. Amen.”
5. The Committal Benediction (Closing the Service)
After the body is committed, you need a strong final word to dismiss the crowd. Do not just say “Thanks for coming.” Use a Benediction.
The Script:
“And now, may the peace of God, which passes all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the knowledge and love of God, and of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord.
And the blessing of God Almighty, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, be among you and remain with you always.
Go in peace. Amen.”
3 Professional Tips for the Committal Service
- The “Mechanics” of Earth: If the family wishes to participate (placing a flower on the casket or sprinkling dirt), give clear instructions before you pray.
- Say: “In a moment, I will pray. After the prayer, those who wish to may come forward and place a flower as a sign of love.”
- Positioning: Stand at the head of the casket if possible. Ensure you are not blocking the family’s view of the lowering device or the grave itself.
- Weather Contingencies: If it is raining or freezing, cut the script by 50%. God understands, and the family will appreciate your consideration of their comfort.