As Christians we offer the funeral rites as an act of thanksgiving to God, the author of all life. The pain of loss runs deep; when Jesus said “Happy those who mourn; they shall be comforted” he spoke of the joy of having loved to the very core and hence the sense of deep loss. So as well as being a service of thanksgiving, the funeral rites are also an opportunity to pray for the deceased and support those left behind.
The Easter Journey: A model for the funeral rites
The model for Catholic funerals is the Easter journey of Jesus from death to resurrection. This is why the Church provides three parts to the funeral celebration namely the prayer vigil, funeral liturgy, and committal. You can find out more about the three parts by downloading the Guide to Catholic Funerals.
How long does the Service take?
The length of the service depends on the type of service you choose. The funeral liturgy can take two forms: the Requiem Mass (Funeral Mass) or a Funeral Service. The Church encourages a Mass since the Eucharist remembers and celebrates Christ’s own death and resurrection. A Funeral Mass can take anywhere between 45-60 minutes. 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 also a valid form of Catholic worship. A funeral without Mass (Funeral Service) takes approximate 30-40 minutes.
How do I arrange for a Catholic funeral?
Before you make any plans, you need to think about whether you wish to have a Funeral Mass or a Funeral Service. Once you have decided this, approach your chosen Funeral Director and make your wishes known. The Funeral Directors are being paid to take the pressure off you, so they will liaise with the Church. Once things are confirmed, the priest or deacon who will conduct the funeral will make contact and arrange to meet with you and offer support. Do not make any firm arrangements about the Service until you have spoken with the priest or deacon.
How do I make arrangements for my own funeral?
Funeral planning can be a challenging task for your loved ones after your death. If you wish to make arrangements for your own funeral first think about the Funeral Director you wish to use and approach them. Most Funeral Directors offer pre-paid funeral plans where you make all of the practical choices and pay for your funeral in advance.
Instructions for my Funeral Mass/Pastoral Care of the Dying Document
The Instructions for my Funeral Mass document came about as a result of Frances Molloy’s (Founder and now Project Manager of the Pastoral Care Project) pioneering work in the community and in care settings. It developed from listening to families, arranging Eucharistic Services and helping with funeral preparations. It was clear there was a longing for these needs to be addressed.
The document which was first piloted by the Pastoral Care Project in care homes in 1997 and used within the Birmingham Diocese since 2007 has been updated in 2012 and approved by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of England and Wales – it is now available from the Narthex.
