How to Arrange a Catholic Funeral Service

In the midst of grief over the departure of a beloved family member or friend, it can be a comfort to arrange a Catholic funeral service according to their wishes. Most Catholic parishes assist parishioners as they arrange a Catholic funeral service for their departed brethren, recognizing that it is a corporal work of mercy to bury the dead

Instructions

1. Contact the pastor of the deceased's parish as soon as possible after the death certificate has been issued. Ideally, a priest should already be aware of the situation and have administered Last Rites to the dying person. One of the parish priests will pray with the family and remain in contact with them as plans progress. Let the pastor know if a specific priest would be most comforting to the family or was requested by the deceased.

2. Discuss funeral arrangements and preferences with your loved one if possible before he or she dies. Pre plan the funeral service as much as possible to reduce stress when the time comes. Discover your loved one's favorite priest, cantor and liturgical songs. If death is expected, begin the arrangements before the person dies to ensure a smooth transition.

3. Meet with the funeral director at the chosen funeral home to discuss details. Choose a coffin if that has not been done already. If a specific priest has been chosen to offer the Funeral Mass, let the funeral home know.

4. Plan the Vigil ("Wake") for the Deceased, the Mass of Christian Burial, and the graveside Rite of Committal with the funeral home and the parish priest. The Vigil is generally held in the Church when you arrange a Catholic funeral service. Those in attendance at the Wake pray the Rosary for the deceased following the viewing. You may have the option to choose liturgical readings, music, readers and other aspects of the Mass of Christian Burial. The remains of the deceased must be present at the funeral Mass. Following the Mass, the Rite of Committal (graveside service) takes place.

5. Notify friends, relatives and local newspapers once arrangements have been made. Spread the word about dates, times and locations so that those who knew the person may pay their last respects.

Tips & Warnings

• Encourage family members, especially those terminally ill, to write down their end-of-life wishes. Ask them if they prefer cremation or bodily burial. Discover where they would like to be buried, and whether a burial plot has been purchased. Knowing these things will make it simpler to arrange a Catholic funeral service when the time comes.

• Request the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick (Extreme Unction) if the Catholic person is near death.