What are the Catholic funeral rites?
There are many opportunities for prayer after death, such as gathering at the funeral home and viewing the body. The Church offers three formal services, all or some of which may be used: • Vigil for the Deceased: the evening before the funeral, a Vigil may be scheduled with visitation. The Vigil is held at the funeral home or church. Devotions, such as the Rosary, and remembrances of the deceased (eulogy) are encouraged at this time. • Funeral Mass: the Eucharist is the heart of the Pascal mystery, when we celebrate the death and resurrection of our Lord, and our participation in that mystery. The Mass is offered for the person who has died. Eulogies are not appropriate at a Funeral Mass. • Graveside Service: the Rite of Committal is celebrated at the place of burial or interment. Who assists with funeral preparations? The funeral rites are planned in coordination with the family of the deceased, the Parish Staff (including the priest and music director), and the funeral home director
There are many opportunities for prayer after death, such as gathering at the funeral home and viewing the body. The Church offers three formal services, all or some of which may be used: • Vigil for the Deceased: the evening before the funeral, a Vigil may be scheduled with visitation. The Vigil is held at the funeral home or church. Devotions, such as the Rosary, and remembrances of the deceased (eulogy) are encouraged at this time. • Funeral Mass: the Eucharist is the heart of the Pascal Mystery, when we celebrate the death and resurrection of our Lord and our participation in that mystery. The Mass is offered for the person who has died. (Eulogies are not appropriate at a Funeral Mass.) • Graveside Service: the Rite of Committal is celebrated at the place of burial or interment. Who assists with funeral preparations? The funeral rites are planned in coordination with the family of the deceased, the Parish Staff (including the priest and music director), and the funeral home directo
