Sympathy Messages - Message of Sympathy

A Sympathy Message, Examples

Similar to condolence messages, sympathy messages are generally sent when someone has faced or is facing a loss of a loved one. However, they can also be sent when one has received some awful or tragic news.

One of the main differences between a sympathy message and a condolence message is sympathy messages are often sent as a less informal message, for example, from work colleagues to each other.

There are hundreds of different ways to pass on your sympathy messages, but have a look at the below for some inspiration.

Short, simple messages – favoured as they are simple, yet they say all that is needed in a condolence message. Two short sympathy messages that are regularly used are:

Dear [name(s)],

Our deepest sympathies are with you and your family after hearing of your recent loss.
If we can be of any help throughout this difficult time, please just let us know.
With all our love,
[name(s)]
Dear [name(s)],

Our thoughts are with you throughout your time of loss.

Prayers and our deepest sympathies,

[name(s)]

The other, most commonly used sympathy message is a longer, more personal message. Everyone will have their own way of writing, but some general rules to follow are:

Start the message with a sentence explaining your most heartfelt sympathies.
Follow this by a few lines of how much the person was loved and admired.
Be sure to include a small story of the person, of a happy moment or time in both their life and your life.
Remember to make sure the message sits comfortably between sympathy and respectful, whilst not making the message too formal or apologetic.
Start the end of the message with offering for help wherever possible. It doesn’t have to be much and needn’t cost a penny, but if you can offer even a small amount of your time, it will be appreciated by the recipient of the sympathy message.
Finish the letter with a simple line such as “Our thoughts are with you” or “With deepest sympathies”. Both add a final, personal touch to the message and ensure the reader realises how sad you are throughout their difficult time.

When writing any sort of sympathy message, always remember to imagine yourself in the recipient’s shoes. If you write a sympathy message which you would appreciate receiving, the likelihood is the person you’re writing to would also find comfort in the letter.