The body and mourners are greeted ritually near the church entrance; the pall, a sign of baptism, is placed on the casket.

Liturgy of the Word
Not merely readings, the proclamation of the Word is an encounter with God speaking through Scripture. Therefore, non-Biblical readings are not appropriate. Reading choices presented here are the Church’s selection of readings for Catholic funerals.

A musical selection of a Psalm or an appointed Biblical canticle, sung in refrain-verse format (hence “responsorial”).

A reading from the letters of Paul or one of the apostles.

Proclaimed by the priest from the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke or John.

Not a eulogy, but a reflection on the Scripture passages which have been proclaimed.

Prayers for the deceased, the family, and the greater good of the Church and of the world.

Liturgy of the Eucharist
“Eucharist” means thanksgiving, and is the sacramental encounter with God. The Liturgy of the Eucharist is the ritual action of the words of consecration: Jesus took, blessed, broke and gave the bread and wine as his Body and Blood.

The altar is prepared and gifts of bread and wine are brought forward.

The central prayer of the Mass.

The Our Father is best recited, so all gathered can participate.

The bread is broken accompanied by the “Lamb of God” litany.

The Body and Blood of Christ are distributed.

A time is optional, just before the final commendation begins. According to archdiocesan directives, only one person is permitted to speak, and should prepare in writing, a brief remembrance of 3-5 minutes.

A time for individual prayer for the deceased.

May be accompanied by the incensing of the body.