How to write a Commemoration List
When writing lists for commemoration in the Divine Liturgy or at other services of intercession, there are a few rules that one should bear in mind to help the clergy.
- First of all, one should mention clearly on top if the list is for Living or Departed
- One should write the full baptismal or monastic name of each person, and not a shortened or pet form - thus Mary, Constantine, Elena, rather than Marsha, Gus, or Nelly.
- For clergy and monastics one should write their rank rather than just putting Father or Mother So-an-So - thus: Metropolitan Demetrios, Protopresbyter Theodore, Nun Eugenia, Deacon Barnabas, and so on.
- There is no need to put their surnames - the Church always prays for people using only their Christian names, which are the names by which there are known in the Church.
- Generally it is recommended to write the clergy names first, according to their rank and then continue with Godparents, parents, family, friends etc.
- If you are also listing non-Orthodox people, you should list them separately because the Church wisely prays for them in a different way, since their needs are different and the healing they require is different.
- When using annual commemoration lists please inform the priest of any changes as they may occur, e.g. when somebody is deceased, or was converted etc.
- Lastly, always write clearly. It is courtesy which you should extend to the clergy, when they are serving for you.