Prayers for a Headstone Dedication or Blessing

Many families ask for a prayer or blessing when a headstone is dedicated. Here are traditional options.

Christian prayers

• The Lord's Prayer.
• Psalm 23 — "The Lord is my shepherd."
• A blessing of the memorial, often led by a priest or minister, sometimes with holy water.
• Eternal rest — "Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them."

Jewish traditions

At an unveiling, families often recite psalms, the El Malei Rachamim memorial prayer and the Mourner's Kaddish (which requires a minyan in traditional practice). See Jewish unveiling.

Interfaith and secular words

A moment of silence, a reading about love or nature, or words shared by family can be just as meaningful. See readings for an unveiling.

Asking clergy

Contact the parish, synagogue or minister a few weeks ahead. Share the date, time and cemetery, and ask whether they'd like to bless the stone.

A simple blessing anyone can say

If no clergy is present, a family member can offer a simple blessing:

"Lord, we dedicate this stone in memory of [name]. May it be a place of peace and remembrance for all who visit. Grant [name] eternal rest, and comfort all who mourn. Amen."

Families of other faiths, or none, can adapt the words — the heart of it is remembrance and comfort.

Key Takeaways

• Psalm 23 and the Lord's Prayer are common.
• Jewish unveilings include Kaddish.
• Silence and readings suit interfaith families.
• Ask clergy a few weeks ahead.

Next Step

See what to say at a dedication.