Funerals

Catholic Christians often choose to celebrate the life of a loved one upon his or her death. Very often funerals take place in the context of the Eucharist – a moment for the bereaved to give thanks for a life cherished and dearly missed, and to be nourished and comforted through the sacrament.

Funerals usually take place at 10:00 a.m. on the day agreed upon by the family and the parish. As far as possible, the needs and wishes of the family are given first consideration, although the availability of the priest and of the church must also be taken into account.

If you wish, the parish would be happy to arrange for a cantor and/or an organist for the funeral.

Should there be a need to plan a funeral mass, please contact the Parish Office.

CHOOSING READINGS & GENERAL INTERCESSIONS FOR MASS

Download the Funeral Preparation Package (PDF)

Note: readings below are referenced in the package

First Reading

For the first reading which is from the Old Testament, pick any reading numbered 789. These readings go from numbers 1 to 7 and are found on pages 688 – 691

The Responsorial Psalm

The Responsorial Psalm is usually sung by the Cantor. If you are not having a Cantor, then pick whatever Psalm you wish and your first reader will read it.

The Second Reading

The second reading is from the Epistles and is chosen from the readings numbered 790. These readings go from number 1 to 17 and are found on pages 691 – 696

The Gospel

The Priest celebrating the Mass chooses the Gospel.

The General Intercessions

You may compose your own or choose 4 or 5 of the ones provided in the package.

The Gifts

If you wish, you may have people bring the gifts to the altar. The chalice, the hosts, the wine and the water will be placed at the doors of the Church on the table with the white cloth.

The Eulogy

Any remarks by a family member or a family friend are to be made before the Mass begins and should last no longer than 4-5 minutes. Just one person may speak. If you want others to say a few words, the appropriate place would be the Funeral Home or the gravesite. Please do not ask for any exceptions to this guideline.

Download the Funeral Preparation Package (PDF)