MORE INFORMATION
Readings
Please note the use of non biblical readings is preferred in a Vigil Service or Funeral Service.
In the Funeral Mass there are many opportunities for biblical readings. This can be a good opportunity for close friends and members of your family to participate in the Funeral Mass.
1st Reading: family or friends
Responsorial Psalm: family or friends
2nd Reading: family or friends
Gospel Reading: Celebrant
The priest will bring together the spiritual interpretation of what has been chosen in the readings, how we may apply it to our daily life, and how it reflects on the life of the deceased. This is referred to as the Homily.
Hymns
It is always a good idea to incorporate hymns which people are familiar with. You can also include a hymn at the completion of the rosary.
Music
Music is an important part of the Funeral Mass. For traditional organ music you may wish to speak to the church organist about what you would like.
Modern Music – It is important to select this carefully as what may seem pleasant, sometimes is inappropriate. Always check out your selection with your Celebrant.
Appropriate CD’s or taped music can be played in place of hymns and for quiet reflection during communion. Music allows the community to express convictions and feelings that words alone may fail to convey. It has the power to console and uplift the mourners and to strengthen the unity of those assembled.
Choir
Some parishes will have available a Choir, please check out the availability with the Celebrant.
Soloist
A soloist could be arranged if you don’t already have one. Your Celebrant or funeral director will be able to arrange this for you.
Flowers in Church
Please speak to your Celebrant about the possibility of flowers in the church.
Refreshments
Refreshments are an important time for you and your friends to gather and talk about the person who has died. This time is very comforting for those family members who have gathered together. The re-establishing of friendships with families and friends from years ago are important at this time. It is often at the time of a funeral that we want to re-visit our past and correct things which have occurred.
The after funeral “cup of tea” is a perfect time for this to occur. You may choose this time to be directly after the Funeral Mass or after the burial or cremation, each province has its own preference.
Catholic Parishes sometimes help in arranging refreshments. Contact your Celebrant or funeral director for advice.
At the Graveside or Crematorium
The Church sees the three elements of the Order of Christian Funerals as integral – The Vigil, The Funeral Mass and the Burial/Cremation. With this in mind, the Church regards the actual burial/cremation as important and the most difficult element of farewell - as a sign of Christian charity and solidarity. Participation by all mourners at the actual liturgy of burial/cremation is to be encouraged.
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