Funeral Liturgy Outline

Part 1: VIGIL FOR THE DECEASED

 

Introductory Rites

Greeting

Opening Song (you may choose one from the song list)

Invitation to Prayer

Opening Prayer

Liturgy of the Word

First Reading (you may choose one from the scripture list, someone may read)

Psalm (someone may read or sing - usually done by a parish cantor)

Gospel (you may choose one from the scripture)

Homily (done by the priest or deacon)

Prayer of Intercession

Litany (choose a person to read)

The Lord's Prayer

Concluding Prayer

Eulogy (you may choose to have members of the family or friends speak briefly about the deceased)

Concluding Rite

Blessing

Song (you may choose one from the song list)

Part 2: FUNERAL MASS

Before Mass

(You may choose a sacred instrumental or songs to be sung and played. Let our music minister know of your preferences.)

Introductory Rites

Greeting

Sprinkling with Holy Water

Placing of the Pall (done by the family members - ask the sacristan or priest to hold this before the Mass)

Placing of Christian symbols (optional - again done by family members)

Opening Song (you may choose from the song list)

Opening Prayer

Liturgy of the Word

First Reading (you may choose from Hebrew Scriptures or New Testament if you only have one reading. During the Easter Season, you may have two New Testament readings.)

Psalm (sung by the parish cantor- you may choose from the psalm list )

Second Reading (optional to have a 2nd reading; from the New Testament - you may choose from the Scripture list)

Gospel (you may choose from the Scripture list)

Intercessions (you may ask someone to read them or the deacon will do them; they are composed in the ritual book and a copy provided for whomever reads them)

Liturgy of the Eucharist

Presentation Song - choose from list provided

Preparation of the Gifts & Altar: (choose family members to bring up the gifts; a collection may be done if the family wishes)

Continuation of the Mass as usual

Communion Song - choose from list provided

Communion under both species will be offered. Communion ministers from the parish will assist.

Final Commendation

Invitation to Prayer

Silence

Song of Farewell (you may choose one to sing from the list)

Prayer of Commendation

Song (you may choose a song from the list or instrumental music)

Procession to the Place of Committal (to the cemetery)

Part 3: RITE OF COMMITTAL

Invitation

Scripture Verse

Prayer over the Place of Committal

Committal

Intercessions

The Lord's Prayer

Concluding Prayer

Prayer over the People

Song (optional)