Holy Sepulchre - Catholic Cemeteries

Funeral Liturgy (Usually Mass)

Celebrating the funeral liturgy at Mass in the parish church is the normal way in which most Catholics experience the Order of Christian Funerals.  The Eucharist looks forward to our participation in the heavenly banquet, where we are united with Jesus, the saints, and all those who share eternal life.  Jesus said, "whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood shall live forever." (John 6:54)  The Eucharist is truly the central point in a Catholic Funeral.  Its effectiveness is greatly enhanced when the family participates in appropriate ways:  clothing the casket with the pall, selecting the Scripture readings, serving as lectors or extraordinary minister, singing the responses and they hymns and, most especially, receiving Holy Communion.

The funeral homily is of utmost importance in the funeral liturgy.  A homily may only be delivered by a priest or a deacon, as liturgical homilies are part of the sacramental rite of the Eucharist.  The homily speaks of the mystery of Christ's death and resurrection and gives the deeper meaning that is found in the experience of death and dying.  The homily occurs within the context of a funeral Mass that is offered for the forgiveness of sins and the salvation of the soul of the faithful departed.