The Funeral Liturgy - Part II

The community gathers with family and friends "to give praise and thanks to God for Christ's victory over sin and death, to commend the deceased to God's tender mercy and compassion, and to seek strength in the proclamation of the Paschal Mystery" (Order of Christian Funerals 129).

The central liturgical celebration of the Christian community for the deceased is the Funeral Liturgy.  This can take two forms:  the Funeral Mass or the Funeral Liturgy outside Mass.  Both of these usually conclude with the Final Commendation before the procession to the cemetery or crematorium.

Preparing the Funeral Liturgy

The Funeral Mass is normally celebrated in the parish church where the deceased has been a member of the community.  However, the needs of the family and the circumstances of death should be taken into account.   The celebration of the Eucharist commemorates the life, death and resurrection of the Lord.  If this Paschal Mystery did not take an important part in the life of the deceased, perhaps it needs to be considered whether, for all concerned, it is the most appropriate liturgy for this person.

The Funeral Liturgy outside Mass is most appropriate when:  

    †  The funeral is held on a major solemnity where the Mass of the Day cannot be replaced.

   †  Where there is no building or priest to celebrate Mass.

   †  When the pastor and family judge a celebration outside of Mass is more appropriate.

The Funeral Liturgy outside Mass is normally celebrated in the parish church, but again consideration needs to be given to the pastoral needs and circumstances of family and friends of the deceased.  There are many choices to be made in the preparation of these liturgies.  Families can be assisted through consultation with the minister, trained person or team delegated by the parish priest.

Personal Mementos

In the Funeral Liturgies Christian symbols such as the Bible, cross or rosary beads may be placed on the coffin. 

These indicate ways in which the person was nourished in the living out of their Baptism. 

Some personal mementos such as photos, walking sticks, police hats, tools of trade, badges carry other memories.  These may not be placed on the coffin but in a separate space. 

Often the coffin is clothed with a large white pall as a reminder of the white garment of Baptism. The Australian Bishops have given permission for the use of the Australian National Flag and appropriate insignia, as is customary, for ex service men and women.

Choice of Music 

Music "allows the community to express convictions and feelings that words alone may fail to convey"  (OCF 30).

Hence, whenever possible, music should be provided for the Vigil and Funeral Liturgy, processions and the Rite of Committal.     (OCF 32)

The music should be carefully chosen so that it may:

    †   Console and uplift the mourners 

    †   Strengthen the faith of the community 

    †   Affirm hope in the resurrection.

The words of songs selected for a particular celebration are important.  They should express Christian hope and faith, or speak of the Lord’s death and resurrection.  They should also ‘be related to the readings from scripture.’   (OCF 30)

Secular music is not appropriate for a Funeral Liturgy nor is recorded music. 

‍

This article was originally published in  ‘Christian Funerals’. ©  Diocese of Parramatta.  2004, 2007. Reprinted with permission.