What to Write in a Funeral Program: Meaningful Bible Verses, Poems & Quotes to Honor a Loved One

What to Write in a Funeral Program: Finding Words That Comfort, Honor, and Inspire

Losing someone you love is one of life's most difficult experiences. During this emotional time, finding the right words to include in a funeral program, memorial invitation, celebration of life booklet, remembrance bookmark, or keepsake fan can feel overwhelming.

Many families wonder:

What should I write in a funeral program?
What is the best Bible verse for a funeral?
Should I include a poem or a meaningful quote?
How do I choose words that truly reflect my loved one's life?
What can I write that brings comfort to family and friends?

If you've found yourself asking these questions, you're not alone.

The words chosen for a memorial service often become lasting keepsakes that family members return to for years. A thoughtfully selected scripture, heartfelt poem, or inspirational quote can provide comfort during grief, celebrate a life well lived, and remind everyone present that love continues long after goodbye.

Whether you're planning a traditional funeral, a celebration of life, a church homegoing service, or an intimate family gathering, this guide will help you choose meaningful wording that reflects your loved one's personality, faith, and legacy.

At Peacefully Planned, we believe that every tribute should tell a story, not only of how someone passed, but of how they lived, loved, and touched the lives of others.

Why Choosing the Right Words Matters

Funeral programs are much more than schedules for a memorial service.

They become treasured keepsakes.

Long after flowers have faded and guests have returned home, many family members keep funeral programs tucked inside Bibles, memory boxes, scrapbooks, or family photo albums. Years later, those same programs often become a source of comfort, reminding loved ones of the beautiful words spoken during the service and the memories shared.

The wording you choose can:

Offer comfort to grieving family and friends.
Reflect the personality and beliefs of your loved one.
Celebrate a meaningful life and lasting legacy.
Provide hope during a difficult season.
Create a keepsake that future generations will treasure.

Some families choose scripture because their loved one had a deep faith. Others prefer a favorite poem that captures their loved one's spirit, while many select an inspirational quote that reminds everyone of the joy, kindness, or strength they shared.

There is no single "right" choice. The most meaningful words are those that feel authentic to the person being remembered.

How to Choose Meaningful Funeral Wording

If you're unsure where to begin, start by asking yourself a few simple questions.

Was faith an important part of their life?

If so, Bible verses may offer the greatest comfort to family and friends.

What brought them joy?

Perhaps they loved gardening, music, travel, family gatherings, or helping others. A quote reflecting those passions can create a deeply personal tribute.

How do you want guests to feel?

Some families want the service to feel peaceful and reflective. Others hope to inspire gratitude and celebrate a life well lived.

Will your wording fit the memorial product?

A funeral program may have room for a longer scripture passage, while memorial bookmarks, keepsake fans, or prayer cards often work best with shorter verses or meaningful quotes.

By considering both your loved one's personality and the purpose of each memorial item, you can create a tribute that feels heartfelt and meaningful.

Old Testament Bible Verses for Funeral Programs

The Old Testament contains some of the most comforting and enduring passages used in Christian funeral services. These scriptures speak of God's presence, His faithfulness, and the hope that sustains believers through seasons of grief.

Below are several of the most frequently chosen passages, along with guidance on when they may be especially meaningful.

Psalm 23:1–6

Best for: Traditional Christian funerals, memorial programs, celebration of life services, memorial bookmarks, and funeral program covers.

Perhaps no passage is more widely recognized at funerals than Psalm 23.

This beloved psalm paints a picture of God as a caring shepherd who walks beside His people through every season of life, even through "the valley of the shadow of death."

For many grieving families, Psalm 23 offers reassurance that God provides comfort, guidance, protection, and eternal hope.

It is particularly meaningful for those seeking a message of peace and confidence in God's constant presence during times of loss.

Verse Reference: Psalm 23:1–6

Isaiah 41:10

Best for: Families seeking encouragement, memorial bookmarks, prayer cards, funeral programs, and sympathy keepsakes.

Grief can leave people feeling uncertain and overwhelmed.

Isaiah 41:10 reminds believers that they are never alone. God's promise to strengthen, help, and uphold His people has brought comfort to generations of families experiencing loss.

This passage is especially appropriate when honoring someone whose faith was marked by courage, perseverance, or unwavering trust in God.

Its message encourages mourners to look beyond today's sorrow and find strength in God's enduring presence.

Verse Reference: Isaiah 41:10

Ecclesiastes 3:1–4

Best for: Celebration of life services, funeral readings, memorial booklets, and family reflections.

One of the most familiar passages in Scripture begins with the words:

"To everything there is a season..."

Ecclesiastes reminds us that life unfolds through many seasons—times of joy, sorrow, beginnings, and endings.

Although grief may feel overwhelming, this passage gently acknowledges that mourning is a natural part of life's journey while also reminding us that healing, hope, and renewal remain possible.

Families often choose Ecclesiastes because it recognizes the full range of human emotion while offering quiet reassurance that every season has meaning.

Verse Reference: Ecclesiastes 3:1–4

Choosing the Right Old Testament Scripture

Each scripture offers comfort in a different way.

Choose Psalm 23 if your loved one found peace in God's guidance and protection.

Choose Isaiah 41 if you want to emphasize God's strength and faithfulness during difficult times.

Choose Ecclesiastes 3 if you wish to acknowledge the natural seasons of life while celebrating the journey your loved one lived.

Many families include one longer scripture inside the funeral program and pair it with a shorter verse on memorial bookmarks, keepsake fans, or remembrance cards. This creates a cohesive theme throughout the service while giving guests meaningful words to take home.

Comforting New Testament Scriptures, Funeral Poems & Celebration of Life Quotes

When planning a funeral or celebration of life, many families look for words that offer hope, comfort, and reassurance during one of life's most difficult moments.

For those of Christian faith, the New Testament offers timeless promises of God's love, eternal life, and the hope found in Jesus Christ. Others may choose a meaningful poem or an inspirational quote that reflects their loved one's personality, values, or legacy.

Whether you're creating a funeral program, memorial bookmark, celebration of life invitation, keepsake fan, prayer card, or remembrance display, the words you choose can become treasured keepsakes that family and friends return to for years.

Comforting New Testament Scriptures for Funeral Programs

The New Testament reminds believers that death is not the end of the story. These passages are frequently chosen for Christian funerals because they speak of hope, peace, comfort, and God's everlasting love.

John 14:1–3

Best for: Traditional Christian funerals, celebration of life services, funeral programs, memorial booklets, and church homegoing services.

This passage is one of the most frequently selected scriptures for funerals because Jesus offers reassurance to His followers, reminding them that He has prepared an eternal home for those who believe in Him.

Families often choose this reading because it shifts the focus from grief to hope, reminding mourners that love continues beyond this life.

Verse Reference: John 14:1–3

Why families choose it:

Offers reassurance during grief.
Emphasizes eternal hope.
Encourages faith in God's promises.
Brings comfort to those mourning a loved one.

Matthew 5:4

Best for: Memorial bookmarks, funeral fans, sympathy cards, and remembrance keepsakes.

Short yet deeply comforting, this verse reminds grieving families that those who mourn are not forgotten.

Because of its length, it fits beautifully on smaller memorial products while still delivering a powerful message of hope.

Verse Reference: Matthew 5:4

Why families choose it:

Short and meaningful.
Ideal for personalized memorial products.
Offers immediate comfort.
Appropriate for Christian funeral services.

Romans 8:38–39

Best for: Celebration of life programs, funeral readings, church services, and remembrance booklets.

One of Scripture's most encouraging messages is that nothing—not even death—can separate believers from God's love.

Families often include this passage when they want to emphasize God's unfailing presence and the lasting bond of faith.

Verse Reference: Romans 8:38–39

Why families choose it:

Celebrates God's everlasting love.
Encourages hope beyond grief.
Reflects enduring faith.
Inspires peace during difficult times.

2 Timothy 4:7

Best for: Honoring veterans, community leaders, pastors, parents, or anyone remembered for a life of faithfulness and perseverance.

This verse celebrates a life lived with purpose, dedication, and integrity.

It is especially meaningful when honoring someone who faithfully served their family, church, profession, or community.

Verse Reference: 2 Timothy 4:7

Why families choose it:

Celebrates a life well lived.
Honors perseverance and faith.
Perfect for tribute pages.
Encourages gratitude rather than sorrow.

Revelation 21:4

Best for: Funeral programs, celebration of life ceremonies, memorial services, and sympathy keepsakes.

Perhaps no New Testament passage paints a more beautiful picture of eternal comfort.

Its promise that sorrow, pain, and tears will one day disappear offers tremendous encouragement for families navigating loss.

Many people choose this passage because it reminds guests that grief is temporary, while God's promises are eternal.

Verse Reference: Revelation 21:4

Why families choose it:

Inspires hope.
Offers comfort after loss.
Beautiful conclusion to funeral services.
Frequently chosen for memorial bookmarks.

Beautiful Funeral Poems That Continue to Comfort Families

Poetry has long been part of memorial services because it captures emotions that can be difficult to express.

A carefully chosen poem can provide comfort, celebrate cherished memories, and remind family members that love continues long after someone has passed.

Here are several beloved funeral poems often selected for memorial services.

Footprints in the Sand

This well-known devotional poem reminds readers that during life's most difficult moments, God carries us when we are unable to walk alone.

Families often include it in Christian funeral programs because of its message of divine comfort and strength.

The Broken Chain

This touching memorial poem reflects the suddenness of loss while reminding readers that although a loved one may be gone physically, their memory remains forever connected to those they loved.

It is often read during funeral services or printed inside memorial programs.

Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep

Written by Mary Elizabeth Frye, this timeless poem encourages readers to remember their loved one not only through grief but through the beauty of nature and everyday life.

It remains one of the most requested poems for celebration of life services.

If Tears Could Build a Stairway

This heartfelt poem expresses the deep longing many people experience after losing someone they love.

Families often select it when creating remembrance booklets or memory displays.

Miss Me But Let Me Go

Rather than focusing solely on loss, this comforting poem gently encourages loved ones to celebrate a life well lived while continuing to move forward with hope.

Celebration of Life Quotes

Not every memorial service includes scripture.

Many families choose meaningful quotations that celebrate love, friendship, kindness, and the lasting impact someone leaves behind.

Here are several timeless quotes that continue to inspire.

"What we once enjoyed and deeply loved we can never lose, for all that we love deeply becomes a part of us."

— Helen Keller

"To live in hearts we leave behind is not to die."

— Thomas Campbell

"Those we love never truly leave us. They continue to live in every memory we cherish and every life they touched."

"A beautiful life leaves beautiful memories."

"Love leaves a memory no one can steal."

"A life filled with kindness is never forgotten."

Original Peacefully Planned Memorial Sayings

These original sayings were created exclusively for the Peacefully Planned brand and may be used freely on funeral programs, memorial bookmarks, keepsake fans, sympathy cards, remembrance gifts, blogs, and social media.

Love lives on in every heart it has touched.
A beautiful soul leaves footprints on countless hearts.
Memories become the stories that keep our loved ones close.
Though life changes, love remains forever.
A life remembered is a legacy that never fades.
Their kindness continues through every life they inspired.
Gone from our sight, forever in our hearts.
Every cherished memory becomes a lasting gift.
Love never ends—it simply changes form.
The greatest legacy is a life filled with love.

Short Sayings Perfect for Memorial Bookmarks

Because bookmarks have limited space, shorter messages often have the greatest impact.

Consider using:

Forever in Our Hearts
Always Loved, Never Forgotten
In Loving Memory
Gone But Never Forgotten
Your Love Lives On
Until We Meet Again
Forever Remembered
Love Never Ends
Cherished Always
Rest in Peace

Short Messages for Funeral Program Fans

Outdoor memorial services often include personalized program fans.

These shorter phrases fit beautifully:

Celebrating a Beautiful Life
Remembering With Love
A Legacy of Kindness
Forever Loved
Faith • Hope • Love
Grace Upon Grace
Safe in God's Care
Love Lives Forever
Always in Our Hearts
Honoring a Beautiful Life

Choosing the Right Words for Your Loved One

Every life is unique, and every memorial should reflect that uniqueness.

As you choose scripture, poems, or inspirational sayings, consider:

What words best describe their personality?
Was faith an important part of their life?
What message would they want family and friends to remember?
Which reading brings the greatest comfort to those attending?

There is no perfect quote or scripture.

The most meaningful words are those that genuinely reflect the love, values, and legacy of the person being remembered.

What to Write on Funeral Programs, Memorial Bookmarks, Fans & Other Memorial Stationery

One of the most meaningful parts of planning a funeral or celebration of life is choosing the words that will honor your loved one's memory.

Whether you're designing a funeral program, creating personalized memorial bookmarks, ordering keepsake fans, or preparing thank-you cards, thoughtful wording transforms these items into treasured keepsakes that family and friends will cherish for years.

Rather than viewing these items as simply printed materials, think of them as lasting reminders of a life well lived. Long after the service has ended, many guests keep these keepsakes tucked inside a Bible, displayed in a memory box, or saved in a scrapbook as a reminder of someone they deeply loved.

This section will help you choose meaningful wording for each memorial item while ensuring your tribute reflects your loved one's personality, faith, and legacy.

What Should You Write in a Funeral Program?

A funeral program serves two important purposes:

First, it provides guests with information about the memorial service.

Second, it becomes a keepsake that celebrates the life of the person being remembered.

While every program is unique, many families include the following sections:

Full name of the deceased
Birth and passing dates
A favorite photograph
Order of service
Officiant and speakers
Musical selections
Scripture readings
Obituary or life story
A favorite poem or meaningful quote
Acknowledgements
Closing message

Including a heartfelt message at the beginning or end of the program can provide comfort to everyone attending.

Sample Welcome Message

"Today we gather not only to mourn a life that has ended, but to celebrate a life that touched so many hearts. Thank you for joining us as we remember, honor, and give thanks for the love, kindness, and memories that will remain with us forever."

Choosing the Right Scripture for Your Funeral Program

Many families select one primary Bible passage that reflects their loved one's faith and personality.

For example:

Psalm 23 offers reassurance that God walks beside us even in life's darkest valleys.
John 14:1–3 reminds believers of Christ's promise to prepare an eternal home.
Revelation 21:4 speaks of a future without pain, sorrow, or tears.
Ecclesiastes 3:1–4 acknowledges that every season of life has purpose.
Romans 8:38–39 reminds us that nothing can separate us from the love of God.

Choosing one central passage creates a consistent spiritual message throughout the service.

Memorial Bookmarks: Small Keepsakes with Lasting Meaning

Memorial bookmarks have become one of the most cherished keepsakes guests receive at a funeral or celebration of life.

Unlike flowers that fade, a bookmark can remain inside a favorite Bible or book for years, quietly reminding someone of a loved one each time they turn a page.

Because space is limited, shorter verses and messages work best.

Popular choices include:

Psalm 23:1–6
Matthew 5:4
Isaiah 41:10
John 14:1–3 (selected verses)
Revelation 21:4

Short memorial sayings also work beautifully:

Forever in Our Hearts
Loved Beyond Words
Gone From Our Sight, Forever in Our Hearts
A Beautiful Life Remembered
Love Lives Forever

Memorial Bookmark Tip

Consider adding a favorite photograph, signature, meaningful flower, or symbol that reflects your loved one's personality. Small details make each bookmark even more personal and memorable.

Funeral Program Fans: Practical and Meaningful

Funeral program fans are especially popular for:

Outdoor services
Summer celebrations of life
Church homegoing services
Graveside ceremonies

Because guests often hold the fan throughout the service, it provides an excellent opportunity to include a brief message of comfort.

Examples include:

Celebrating a Beautiful Life
Safe in God's Care
Forever Loved
Love Never Ends
Faith • Hope • Love
Resting in Eternal Peace
Cherished Always
A Legacy of Love

Keep wording concise so it remains easy to read from a distance.

Memorial Prayer Cards

Prayer cards provide guests with a lasting reminder of faith and hope.

They often include:

A favorite Bible verse
A short prayer
A photograph
Birth and passing dates
A meaningful quote

Prayer cards are frequently tucked into wallets, Bibles, journals, or memory boxes and become treasured reminders of a loved one's life.

Celebration of Life Invitations

Invitations set the tone for the entire memorial gathering.

Rather than focusing only on loss, many families choose wording that celebrates love, gratitude, and cherished memories.

Example:

"Together, let us celebrate a life filled with kindness, laughter, and unconditional love. We invite you to join us as we honor and remember the remarkable life of..."

Celebration of life invitations often include favorite colors, photographs, flowers, or meaningful symbols that reflect the personality of the person being remembered.

Memorial Guest Books

A guest book becomes one of the most treasured keepsakes after the service.

Encourage guests to write more than their names.

Invite them to share:

Favorite memories
Funny stories
Words of encouragement
Lessons they learned
Special moments together

Sample Welcome Message

"Thank you for joining us today. Please share a favorite memory, message, or story. Your words will become a treasured gift for our family for years to come."

These handwritten memories often become one of the family's most valued possessions.

Memorial Thank-You Cards

After the funeral, many families wish to express appreciation to everyone who offered support.

A thoughtful thank-you message does not need to be lengthy.

Example:

"Our family sincerely thanks you for your kindness, prayers, thoughtful messages, flowers, and support during this difficult time. Your compassion has brought comfort that will never be forgotten."

Simple words spoken with sincerity often mean the most.

Should All Your Memorial Products Match?

Many families wonder whether funeral programs, bookmarks, fans, prayer cards, and signs should coordinate.

The answer is yes, if possible.

Using matching designs throughout the memorial service creates:

A polished appearance
A calming visual theme
A cohesive tribute
Easier planning
Beautiful keepsakes for guests

Coordinated memorial stationery can feature the same:

Floral artwork
Colors
Typography
Favorite photograph
Bible verse
Memorial quote

The result is a thoughtful and unified remembrance that reflects your loved one's life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should you write inside a funeral program?

Most funeral programs include an order of service, obituary or life story, favorite scripture, meaningful quote or poem, acknowledgements, and a personal message celebrating the individual's life and legacy.

How long should a memorial quote be?

For funeral programs, one or two short paragraphs work well. Memorial bookmarks, fans, and prayer cards generally look best with one brief quote, scripture reference, or inspirational saying.

Should I use a Bible verse or a poem?

There is no right or wrong choice.

If faith was central to your loved one's life, scripture may feel most meaningful. If they appreciated literature, music, or poetry, a favorite poem or quote may better reflect their personality. Many families choose to include both.

Can I personalize funeral stationery?

Absolutely.

Personal touches such as photographs, handwritten signatures, favorite flowers, hobbies, meaningful colors, or cherished sayings create a more personal tribute and celebrate the unique story of your loved one's life.

Where can I find customizable memorial templates?

If you're looking for professionally designed memorial products that can be personalized with your own photographs, wording, scripture references, and colors, explore the Peacefully Planned memorial collections. Coordinated funeral programs, memorial bookmarks, celebration of life invitations, keepsake fans, and remembrance gifts help create a beautiful and meaningful tribute while simplifying the planning process.

Continue Your Planning Journey

If you found this guide helpful, you may also enjoy these resources from Peacefully Planned:

📖 Why Writing Down Final Wishes Matters: A Simple Guide for Families

Learn how documenting personal wishes can provide clarity, comfort, and peace of mind for those you love.

📖 Creative Memorial Table Ideas for a Meaningful Tribute

Discover thoughtful ways to display photographs, keepsakes, candles, guest books, and personalized décor that celebrate a life well lived.

📖 10 Important Documents Every Senior Should Organize

Prepare essential documents ahead of time to reduce stress and help your loved ones when they need it most.

📖 How to Choose the Right Memorial Keepsake for Guests

Explore memorial bookmarks, keepsake fans, magnets, remembrance cards, and personalized gifts that guests will treasure.

📖 What Is Funeral Pre-Planning?

Learn how planning ahead can reduce uncertainty, ease family stress, and ensure your wishes are clearly understood.

Creating a Meaningful Tribute: Resources to Help Families Plan with Peace and Confidence

Planning a funeral, celebration of life, or memorial service can feel overwhelming, especially while navigating grief.

Families are often making important decisions during one of the most emotional moments of their lives:

What should be included in the funeral program?
How do we create a meaningful tribute?
What keepsakes should we provide for guests?
How can we honor our loved one's wishes?
Where do we even begin?

The truth is that there is no single "perfect" memorial.

The most meaningful tributes are created with intention. They reflect the personality, values, faith, relationships, and memories of the person being honored.

Whether you are planning ahead for yourself or helping a family member after a loss, having the right information and resources can bring comfort, clarity, and confidence.

Planning Ahead Is an Act of Love

Many people avoid conversations about funeral planning because the topic feels uncomfortable.

However, documenting your wishes before they are needed can be one of the greatest gifts you give your family.

When final wishes are clearly communicated, loved ones are not left guessing during an already difficult time.

Planning ahead allows families to discuss important decisions such as:

Preferred type of service
Burial or cremation wishes
Favorite scriptures or readings
Music selections
Important photographs
Meaningful traditions
Memorial keepsakes
Important documents

Funeral pre-planning is not about focusing on death.

It is about creating peace of mind, reducing stress, and making sure your story is honored in a way that reflects who you are.

Helpful Peacefully Planned Resources for Families

At Peacefully Planned, our mission is to help individuals and families approach end-of-life planning with greater clarity, compassion, and confidence.

Through educational resources, guided journals, and personalized memorial products, Peacefully Planned encourages families to have important conversations before they become urgent.

Peacefully Planned Books: Resources for Life Planning and End-of-Life Preparation

Peacefully Planned: Life's Final Chapter Step-by-Step

Preparing for the future does not mean expecting the worst.

It means making thoughtful decisions today that can provide comfort and guidance tomorrow.

Peacefully Planned: Life's Final Chapter Step-by-Step helps readers organize important information, reflect on personal wishes, and begin conversations that many families postpone.

Topics include:

Understanding funeral pre-planning
Organizing important information
Recording personal preferences
Considering memorial wishes
Preparing loved ones for the future

This guide is designed to help individuals approach planning with confidence and compassion.

Peacefully Planned: End-of-Life Reflections

Every life tells a story.

Peacefully Planned: End-of-Life Reflections provides space for thoughtful reflection, memories, personal messages, and meaningful conversations.

It encourages individuals to consider:

The memories they want preserved
The values they want remembered
The stories they want shared
The legacy they hope to leave behind

A written reflection can become an invaluable gift for future generations.

Personalized Memorial Products from Peacefully Planned

A memorial service is a reflection of a unique life.

Small details often create the most meaningful moments.

Personalized memorial products can help families create a consistent and beautiful tribute.

The Peacefully Planned collection offers customizable remembrance items including:

These items can be personalized with:

Names
Dates
Photographs
Bible verses
Poems
Meaningful quotes
Favorite colors
Personal messages

A coordinated collection helps families create a thoughtful experience for guests while preserving memories for years to come.

Explore the Peacefully Planned collection:

https://www.zazzle.ca/store/peacefullyplanned

Frequently Asked Questions About Funeral Program Wording and Memorial Planning

What is the most common Bible verse used in funeral programs?

Psalm 23 is one of the most recognized scriptures used in Christian funeral services. Its message of God's guidance, comfort, and presence during difficult times has brought reassurance to generations of families.

Other commonly selected passages include John 14:1–3, Revelation 21:4, Matthew 5:4, and Romans 8:38–39.

What should be included on the front of a funeral program?

Common elements include:

A favorite photograph
Full name of the deceased
Birth and passing dates
A meaningful scripture or quote
A title such as "Celebrating the Life of..."
Service date and location

The cover should reflect the personality and spirit of the person being remembered.

What is a good short message for a memorial bookmark?

Short messages work best for bookmarks because space is limited.

Examples include:

Forever in Our Hearts
Always Loved, Never Forgotten
A Beautiful Life Remembered
Love Lives Forever
Cherished Today and Always

A favorite scripture reference or personal quote can also create a meaningful keepsake.

What should I write on a celebration of life invitation?

Celebration of life invitations often focus on gratitude and remembrance.

A simple message may include:

An invitation to gather
The person's name
Date and location
A brief reflection about their life
A message encouraging guests to share memories

How do I create a meaningful memorial table?

A memorial table can include:

Favorite photographs
Personal belongings
Flowers
Candles
Guest books
Memory cards
Personalized keepsakes

The purpose is to tell the story of the person's life and provide guests with a place to reflect.

Read more:
Creative Memorial Table Ideas for a Meaningful Tribute

Continue Your Peacefully Planned Journey

Planning ahead provides something priceless: peace.

Whether you are organizing your own wishes, supporting a loved one, or creating a memorial tribute after a loss, thoughtful preparation can reduce uncertainty and create meaningful moments of connection.

The most important part of any memorial is not the decorations, the printed materials, or the ceremony itself.

It is the love, memories, and legacy that remain.

A life remembered is a life honored.

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