The Liturgy
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The Funeral Mass Liturgy Outline
As a source of reference, here is a brief outline of the Catholic Funteral Rite during Mass. A brief Gathering Rite serves as an introduction to the Liturgy of the Word. The Liturgy of the Eucharist follows, concluded by the Final Commendation and procession to the place of commital.
Gathering Rite Greeting The body and mourners are greeted ritually near the church entrance; the pall, a sign of baptism, is placed on the casket.
Gathering Song To be chosen by you
Opening Prayer [Priest]
Liturgy of the Word
Not merely readings, the proclamation of the Word is an encounter with God speaking through Scripture. Therefore, non-Biblical readings are not appropriate. Reading choices presented here are the Church’s selection of readings for Catholic funerals.Old Testament Reading Normally a text from the Old Testament (excluding the Psalms), from the New Testament during the Easter season. [Chosen by you; May be read by person of your choosing.] Responsorial Psalm A musical selection of a Psalm or an appointed Biblical canticle, sung in refrain-verse format (hence “responsorial”). [Chosen by you; Lead by Cantor.]
New Testament Reading A reading from the letters of Paul or one of the apostles. [Chosen by you; May be read by person of your choosing.]
Gospel Acclamation Sung by Cantor.
Gospel Proclaimed by Priest or Deacon.
Homily Words by Priest - not a eulogy, but a reflection on the Scripture passages which have been proclaimed.
General Intercessions Prayers for the deceased, the family, and the greater good of the Church and of the world. [May be offered by person of your choosing.]
Liturgy of the Eucharist
“Eucharist” means thanksgiving, and is the sacramental encounter with God. The Liturgy of the Eucharist is the ritual action of the words of consecration: Jesus took, blessed, broke and gave the bread and wine as his Body and Blood.Preparation of the Gifts The altar is prepared and gifts of bread and wine are brought forward. [May be brought forward by 2 people of your choosing.]
Eucharistic Prayer The central prayer of the Mass.
The Lord's Prayer The Our Father is recited together, so all gathered can participate.
Breaking of the Bread The bread is broken accompanied by the “Lamb of God” litany.
Communion The Body and Blood of Christ are distributed.
Prayer after Communion Priest Final Commendation Family Remembrance This is the time, according to Archdiocesan Directives, for ONE person to share a brief remembrance of 3-5 minutes. This should be written and ahead of time and given to priest for review. [Some people do prefer to do at the beginning, which is also acceptable.]
Invitation to Prayer Priest
Silent Prayer A time for individual prayer for the deceased.
Song of Farwell Final Commendation chosen by you.
May be accompanied by the incensing of the body.
Recessional Song to be chosen by you.Procession to the Place of Committal