Funeral Service
Funeral Liturgy
This is the main celebration of the Christian community for the deceased person. It is usually celebrated in the parish church where the local community gathers for the Sunday Eucharist.
Sometimes people may celebrate the Funeral Liturgy in a crematorium or cemetery chapel. Two forms are possible: a funeral Mass, (also called the Requiem Mass) or a funeral liturgy outside Mass. The Church encourages a Mass since the Eucharist remembers and celebrates Christ’s own death and resurrection. However, while the Eucharist is our central liturgy, it is not always the best option for every funeral. To celebrate a funeral without Mass is a truly valid form of Catholic worship.
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Committal
The rite of committal usually follows on immediately from the funeral liturgy. This final act of leave taking is celebrated at the graveside or at the crematorium. When a body is cremated the funeral liturgy is concluded with the interring of ashes sometime afterwards.
While we are encouraged to celebrate a funeral over these three stages, for a variety of good reasons this model is not always possible or appropriate to the circumstances. Many combinations of funeral rites are possible. The funeral may even comprise a single act of worship either in the cemetery chapel or crematorium.
When Someone Dies, please contact:
• The Parish Priest
• next of kin, if not present
• family doctor, if the person dies at home
• funeral director, if the family is using one (the deceased may already have made arrangements)
In addition, if you are called to someone who has died unexpectedly or in unusual circumstances, the police will need to be informed. Do not touch or move anything in the room. If the cause of death is clear, the doctor will issue a medical certificate and a formal notice confirming that he or she has signed the certificate. This notice gives information on how to register the death and will enable funeral arrangements to be made.
If the doctor reports the death to the coroner, there may be a delay while a post mortem or inquest is carried out. The coroner’s office will advise you on what arrangements may be made.
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Registering a Death
The death will need to be registered within five days unless it has been reported to the coroner. Further detail concerning these procedures can be found in a booklet available from the Department of Social Security.
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What are the Financial Implications?
If the family wishes to use a funeral director, it is quite proper to invite estimates from different firms. There is a considerable financial difference between cremation and burial, and those choosing burial will also need to consider maintaining the grave. There may be a fee for an organist or other musician.
An offering to the minister or parish may apply in certain circumstances, it is advisable to speak to the parish priest. Where the family uses a funeral director an offering may be included automatically in the account.
Other Considerations
What choices can I make?
More than you think. Not only can you choose hymns but also scripture readings and prayers.
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How do I plan a Funeral?
Planning Guides are available which contain the choice of readings and prayers. Into Your Hands, prepared for the Bishops’ Conference, also contains
helpful advice on the form of the funeral service.
Who can help me plan a Funeral?
The priest, deacon, or other members of the parish community will be happy to help.
Can I have a Poem or Favourite Song?
There are opportunities for personal choices in each of the three stages of the funeral. Secular poems and songs often fit best in the prayer vigil, but there
is also an opportunity for ‘Words in Remembrance’ towards the end of the funeral liturgy. Care should be taken that the words of any material is in keeping
with our Christian faith.
Can a Stillborn Baby have a Funeral?
Yes, the Church provides a special service within its collection of liturgies Order of Christian Funerals.It can also be adapted for parents who have suffered a miscarriage.
What is the Catholic Church’s Opinion on Cremation?
Catholics in this country can be cremated. The Church encourages the bereaved to bury the ashes in a final resting place.
I am the resurrection and the life,
says the Lord, whoever believes in me will never die.