Catholic Funeral Rites (Page 2 of 6) in pdf

St. Frances Cabrini (2011)

Planning for the Funeral Rite



When you meet with the parish priest of liturgy director, you will receive a copy of the

book Through Death to Life by Fr. Joseph Champlin (Ave Maria Press). For advance

planning, you can also get a copy of this book at the parish office. It contains all the

suggested options for Scripture reading and prayers, as well as a handy tear-out

planning sheet for you to submit to the priest of liturgy director.



The first thing the priest or deacon will need to know is whether the body will be

present or if there are cremated remains. It is preferred that the body be present for

the funeral Mass and if cremation is to take place that it be done following the Mass.



Here are some of the choices you’ll need to communicate to the parish:

Scripture readings (more information below)

Music choices (more information below)

Is there a visiting priest?

Will anyone be eulogizing following communion?

Do you want a funeral luncheon? How many will be coming?

Routinely provided by a group of parish volunteers (donation) and Usually

held in the School Gym or Squire Hall immediately following the burial at the

cemetery.

Printed programs

If you are having someone prepare a printed program for the Mass you we will need the

following information.

 Exact dates of birth and death

 If you wish, a favorite photo to be used on the front cover of the program

 The names of the following:

a. Readers of first and second reading

b. Readers of General Intercessions (Prayers of the Faithful) (if desired, the priest

or cantor can read these)

c. Pall bearers

d. Gift bearers (to present the bread and wine at offertory)

e. Alter servers (if applicable; normally these are provided by the parish)

f. Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion (EMHC), if communion under both

species is desired. These must be officially–commissioned EMHCs and at least

one must be a member of the parish. Upon request, the parish will recruit

EMHCs for you.

Catholic Funeral Rites Page 2