Frequently Asked Questions About Funerals


  • Why do we celebrate the funeral rites? In the funeral rites we pray for the deceased, entrusting them to God's mercy and care. We honor the body. We comfort the living in their grief. We celebrate the funeral rites not only for the dead but also for the living.

  • Is cremation permitted by the Catholic Church?The Church has permitted cremation since 1963. The Funeral Liturgy Rites were revised in 1996 with modified prayers for the created remains at a funeral Mass.

  • How are the cremated remains to be buried? The Church gives the ashes the same sacredness as it does for the body. Ashes are not to be separated, but must remain in a single urn. The sacred ashes are to be buried in a proper burial site or columbarium. They may not remain in one's home, and they may not be scattered or dispersed on the ground or on the water.

  • What rites can be used for miscarried or stillborn infants? “Funeral Rites may be celebrated for children whose parents intended them to be baptized but who died before Baptism. In these celebrations, the Christian community entrusts the child to God's all-embracing love.” (Order of Christian Funeral #237)

  • What rites can be used for a suicide victim? This person is entrusted to God's love and mercy and is therefore entitled to the usual Funeral Rites.

  • What is done for a lapsed Catholic? By virtue of baptism this person is entitled to the prayers of the Church including the Funeral Rites.

  • What are the different funeral rites and where are they celebrated? The Vigil service is celebrated in the presence of the body at the funeral home. The Funeral Mass is always celebrated in the Church. The Committal Rite is preferably celebrated at the grave or at the tomb.

  • What are the parts of the Mass that a family can help plan? The family can choose the one Old Testament Reading, the Psalm (which is always sung), the New Testament Reading, and the Gospel. The family can also assist in the selection of hymns and other music for the Funeral Liturgy.

  • What parts of the Mass may family and friends participate? Everyone is encouraged to join in the spoken and sung responses throughout the Mass. In addition, there may be a reader for the Old Testament, and another for the New Testament. A family member may read the intercessions and others may bring forth the gifts.

  • What is the Placing of a Christian Symbol? At the beginning of the Funeral Mass, a Christian Symbol that was important to the deceased may be placed on the casket by a family member. This would be things such as a favorite cross, a rosary, or a prayer book.