funeral preparation
If you have recently lost a loved one, please accept the condolences of the Sacred Heart community who will assist you in planning the funeral liturgy.
Most families prefer having some time to consider the various options for funeral readings and music before they meet to plan the funeral. For this reason, you will find hymns and readings for a funeral service on this website.
Once the parish is notified of the upcoming funeral, will contact you and arrange to meet with you about the funeral liturgy.
Family members usually choose the following:
One reading from the Hebrew Scriptures (Old Testament)
One reading from the Christian Scriptures (New Testament)
One Psalm (which is sung between the two Scripture readings)
Four hymns (for the Entrance, Offertory, Communion and Recessional)
Family members or close friends are selected to:
Read each of the Scripture passages
Bring the bread and wine to the priest at the Offertory
Offer Words of Remembrance (a short eulogy)
In addition, the family may invite 2-5 persons to place the pall (a white cloth that reminds us of the Baptismal garment) over the casket; and 1-6 people to read the General Intercessions.
We understand that this can be an overwhelming time for you and that some families prefer a less active role in the funeral. We will help you plan a service that is meaningful, dignified and comfortable for you.
An overview of the Catholic Funeral Service
preparing for the funeral service
As Christians, we believe that death is not the end of life, but the beginning of a new eternal life in the presence of our loving God, which we share with all those whose earthly lives pleased our God.
This belief fills us with hope in the midst of our tears. We trust that while death separates us from a loved one now, we will be reunited again. This belief is proclaimed in the funeral liturgy over and over again.
For this reason, the priest wears white vestments instead of black or purple, and the readings and music reflect the joyous view of eternal life promised to us by Christ.
A Catholic funeral is more than just a memorial service; it is a sacred liturgy of hope and love. Our participation in the Eucharist at the funeral unites us in a special way once more with the person we remember, until we meet again forever in heaven.
Choices for music and readings
order of the funeral Mass
I. Introductory Rite
II. The Liturgy of the Word
III. The Liturgy of the Eucharist
IV. The Communion Rite
V. Words of Remembrance (Eulogy)
VI. The Final Commendation
Cremation is accepted by the Catholic Church.
If it occurs prior to the funeral, the urn may be brought to the church and is placed on a small table in front of the Paschal Candle before the service begins.
An appropriately-sized bouquet of flowers may be placed on the table or on the floor in front of it. A photo of the deceased may also be displayed on the table.
