Many people aren’t sure what to say when scattering ashes. Some choose to give a small speech and others provide an opportunity to share memories. Others decide to say a prayer.
As we scatter his or her ashes, we commit his or her body to you and pray that he finds eternal rest for the glory of your holy name. Lord, forgive us where we have strayed during this grieving season. Fill us with thanksgiving for his well-lived and full life. In Jesus’ name, we believe and pray, Amen.
If prayer was an important part of the life of your loved one, this could be a fitting tribute to their memory. Learn more about our list of prayers for spreading ashes.
Catholic Prayers for Spreading Ashes
If you belong to a Catholic family or you want to honor a Catholic loved one, you can offer several prayers during a scattering ceremony.» MORE: Easy as 1-2-3, make an online will in minutes.
1. “Entrusted to You” from Catholicism
This is a beautiful prayer that affirms trust in God and the reality that your loved one is in a better place. While the full prayer is quite long, if you’re looking for just a line or two, consider the following excerpt:
“Welcome them into paradise, where there will be no sorrow, no weeping or pain, but fullness of peace and joy with your son and the holy spirit forever and ever.”
2. “Eternal Rest” from Catholicism
“Give her eternal rest, O Lord, and may your light shine on her forever.”
This is a straightforward prayer that people in attendance can say individually or collectively.
3. “Forgiveness” from Catholicism
If you’re uncertain as to whether your loved one had last rites performed or simply want to offer prayer on their behalf and ask for forgiveness, this prayer is perfect.
“All-powerful and merciful God… blot out the sins they committed through human weakness. In this world, they have died. Let them live with you forever.”
Protestant Prayers for Spreading Ashes
Prayers offered for Protestant family members are slightly different. Here are several options for those in need of a Protestant prayer.
4. “Present with God” from Christianity
“Father, we are so thankful that Jane is with you. She is walking the streets of heaven in perfect peace. Please comfort our hearts as we feel sorrow over our loss of her presence.”
Pray this when you know your loved one is in heaven and acknowledge the sorrow of those in attendance.
5. “Passing Shadow” from Christianity
“Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me.” Psalm 23:4
Even though death is a sobering time, there is hope beyond the grave for many Christians.
6. “Absent from Earth” from Christianity
“Absent from the body, present with the Lord.”
This is a fitting reminder that, though they may no longer be with us, your loved one is in a better place.
Jewish Prayers for Scattering Ashes
While many Jewish families do not believe in cremation, there are certain circumstances in which it is permitted. In addition, within the Reformed Judaism movement, the choice to cremate is permissible.
Here are several prayers to use for your Jewish loved one, many of which are also used at a funeral.
7. “El Maleh Rachamim” from Judaism
This is a prayer for the soul of a departed loved one. Here is a brief excerpt:
“God, full of mercy… Provide a sure rest upon the divine presence’s wings… to the soul of [name], son of [name].”
8. “Psalm 23” from Judaism
The lines of this poem are a promise of rest and peace for the one who has passed away.
“Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall abide in the house of the Lord forever.”
9. “Psalm 91” from Judaism
This is a poem that brings comfort and hope.
“He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most high shall abide under the shadow of the almighty. I will say of the Lord, he is my refuge and my fortress; he is my God; in him will I trust.”