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Etiquette of Acknowledgements
Within a reasonable time after the service, (seven to fourteen days) it is appropriate to send “Thank You” cards to show your appreciation for flowers, food, memorial donations and other acts of kindness and support which family, friends, clergy, co-workers, church members and neighbors have given.
The cards may have brief, handwritten notes and should be signed by a family member. A personal note of appreciation can be very meaningful at this time. Don’t hesitate to express yourself openly and sincerely. It is more personal if a family member who knows the recipient personally signs it. A list of suggested short messages you can write are outlined below:
- Thank you for all your kindness and for the beautiful flowers that expressed your sympathy in our recent sorrow.
- Your help in the time of our need was a great comfort to us. Thank you for your unfailing sympathy and kind assistance.
- Our sorrow is easier to bear with the help of friends like you. We want you to know how much we appreciate all that you have done for us in our recent bereavement.
- Your lovely flowers and accompanying message expressed an affection and understanding, which we will always cherish. Thank you for all your kindness.
- Our sorrow in the loss of our dear (father, mother, sister, brother, etc.) is somewhat easier to bear because of your kindness. Your sympathy at this time is truly appreciated and a source of comfort to us.
- The memory of your kindness will always remain with us. Thank you!
If flowers were sent from a group or friends or co-workers, you can send a note of thanks to each member of the group; however, a single note of thanks to the group listing all the names is also acceptable. You only need to send one card of thanks to an organization that you receive flowers or other condolences from where individual names are not mentioned. Send the thank you card to the leader of the organization.
Remember, it is not necessary to send a thank you card to all those who signed the register book set out during services.