Placing an inscription on a memorial is one of the most personal decisions a family can make. In churchyards, however, there are specific rules that need to be followed to ensure inscriptions remain respectful, Christian in character, and in keeping with the setting. Understanding these rules early can save families time, money, and unnecessary disappointment.
At Lincolnshire Memorials, we guide families through this process every step of the way. As accredited members of the British Register of Accredited Memorial Masons (BRAMM) and approved on the Register of Qualified Memorial Fixers, we ensure that every inscription meets diocesan requirements while still reflecting the individuality of your loved one.
Why are there rules for churchyard inscriptions?
Churchyards are consecrated spaces, and inscriptions are expected to reflect the sacred and communal nature of the ground. Each Church of England diocese, such as the Diocese of Lincoln, issues its own regulations. These are not intended to take away personal choice, but to preserve dignity, reverence, and consistency in a shared setting.
According to the Diocese of Lincoln’s guidelines, inscriptions should be simple and reverent, often drawn from the Bible, the Book of Common Prayer, or other Christian liturgy. Full names and dates must be included, and any wording should avoid over-familiarity or language that might seem casual or out of place in a churchyard.
The Church of England explains opens in a new tab that the aim of these rules is to balance individual memorials with the character of the churchyard as a whole.
What inscriptions are usually accepted?
There is wide scope within the rules to create meaningful and beautiful inscriptions. Some examples that are almost always approved include:
- “In loving memory of [Full Name], [dates].”
- “Remembering [Full Name], beloved [relationship], [dates].”
- Short, simple verses such as “The Lord is my shepherd” or “Rest in peace.”
These meet the requirement for reverent wording while still allowing families to honour their loved one in a personal way.
As Mario, lead mason at Lincolnshire Memorials, often says: “Simplicity does not mean a lack of meaning. Some of the most moving memorials I have installed contain only a few words, but those words capture the essence of a life and a family’s love.”
What inscriptions are not usually permitted?
Some requests fall outside the delegated authority of a parish priest. In these cases, families must apply for special permission called a Faculty from the Diocesan Chancellor. Common examples that require Faculty or are often refused include:
- Photographs, ceramic portraits, or QR codes.
- Metallic paints such as gold or silver for lettering.
- Trade marks or brand logos.
- Plastic or inserted lettering rather than incised or relief.
- Overly informal wording, slogans, or phrases that lack reverence.
Families are sometimes surprised when wording like “Grandad” or non-biblical quotes are questioned. While not expressly forbidden, these may be seen as too familiar for a churchyard context. In such cases, we can help rework the inscription to include both the formal record and a dignified closing line.
The approval process: what to expect
The process for approval is straightforward when approached correctly:
- Speak to the parish priest early. Before designs are finalised, clergy should see the proposed wording to check compliance with diocesan rules.
- Submit the CR1 application form. This must include the exact inscription, the style and size of lettering, and any colouring.
- Faculty application if required. If the wording or design falls outside diocesan rules, a Faculty must be requested from the Chancellor. This can take longer, so families should be aware of timescales.
Our team handles these steps on behalf of families, ensuring applications are complete and accurate before submission. This avoids costly delays or the disappointment of rejection.
Practical examples from our experience
- A family wanted to use a favourite phrase of their father, “Gone fishing.” While not a biblical reference, it was important to them. We advised including his full name and dates alongside a traditional line such as “In loving memory of,” then placed “Gone fishing” discreetly as the closing inscription. The parish priest accepted this compromise.
- Another family asked for gold paint on lettering to match a relative’s stone from decades ago. We explained that metallic paints are no longer permitted within diocesan rules. Instead, we suggested a natural paint shade in keeping with the stone. They were pleased with the final result, and the inscription remains clear and dignified.
- In one case, a family hoped to include a photograph. We explained that photographs are not permitted in Lincolnshire churchyards without Faculty. Instead, they chose a carved symbol of a rose, which the priest approved quickly and which carried deep meaning for the family.
Why churchyard rules differ from cemeteries
Families sometimes wonder why cemeteries appear more flexible. The reason is that cemeteries are municipal, not consecrated ground, and their rules are generally broader. Churchyards, by contrast, are sacred spaces linked to historic churches, where uniformity and Christian symbolism are prioritised.
Understanding this distinction can help families decide where to place a memorial. For those who prefer a freer choice of inscription, cemeteries may provide more flexibility. For those choosing a churchyard, Lincolnshire Memorials ensures that inscriptions remain both meaningful and compliant.
Working with Lincolnshire Memorials
Navigating churchyard regulations can feel daunting, especially when a family is already dealing with grief. At Lincolnshire Memorials, we see it as our role to carry that burden for you. We check inscriptions against diocesan rules, prepare applications, liaise with clergy, and propose alternatives when needed. Our goal is to give families peace of mind that their memorial will be approved, installed to the highest standard, and remain a lasting tribute for generations.
Checklist: Steps to Take Before Choosing a Churchyard Inscription
Before finalising an inscription, it helps to take a few simple steps that will save time and ensure your memorial is approved without difficulty. Use this checklist as a guide, and remember that Lincolnshire Memorials can assist with every stage of the process.
- Confirm the rules for the parish
Each diocese, including the Diocese of Lincoln, has its own regulations. Always check before deciding on wording. - Include full name and dates
These are required in churchyard inscriptions and must be presented clearly. - Keep the wording reverent and simple
Short biblical verses, prayers, or traditional lines are usually approved without difficulty. - Avoid restricted features
Metallic paints, photographs, plastic lettering, and trade marks are not permitted without special permission. - Discuss with the parish priest early
Share the draft inscription before finalising to avoid reworking later. - Prepare for later additions
If space may be needed for another inscription in the future, plan the layout and lettering style now. - Seek expert guidance
A qualified memorial mason can suggest compliant alternatives, prepare applications, and liaise with clergy on your behalf.
Common Questions About Churchyard Inscriptions
Can We Use A Favourite Quote Or Saying On A Churchyard Memorial?
Yes, but it must be simple and reverent. Non-biblical quotes are sometimes allowed if they are respectful in tone, otherwise a Faculty may be required.
Are Nicknames Like “Grandad” Or “Nanna” Permitted?
Formal names should always appear on the inscription, but a short affectionate term may be included if presented in a dignified way. Clergy approval is needed before finalising.
Can We Have Gold Or Silver Paint In The Lettering?
Most dioceses, including Lincoln, do not allow metallic paints on churchyard memorials. A natural paint colour or deeper incising is usually recommended instead.
Is It Possible To Add A Photograph Or Ceramic Image?
Photographs are generally not permitted under diocesan rules. Families who feel strongly about including one must apply for a Faculty, but approval is not guaranteed.
How Long Does The Inscription Approval Process Take?
If the inscription is straightforward and within the rules, approval can often be given by the parish priest within weeks. A Faculty application, however, may take several months.
Can Future Inscriptions Be Added Later?
Yes, but they must match the original style, layout, and lettering. It is best to plan space for future names or inscriptions at the design stage.
