Funerals

There are two different funeral ceremonies that can be done for those who wish to receive a Catholic burial. Please look at both options to see which would be best for you: 

Funeral Ceremony 

• 30-45 minutes long 
• Includes readings from scripture, music, preaching, and a commendation of the deceased. 
• Can be performed by a deacon or a priest. 
• Usually appropriate for: 
• Those whose families are not familiar with the Catholic Faith. 
• Those whose families do not regularly practice the Catholic Faith through weekly Mass. 

 

Funeral Mass 

• 1+ hour(s) long. 
• Includes everything from the ceremony, plus the celebration of the Eucharist. 
• Must be performed by a priest. 
• Usually appropriate for: 
• Those who were practicing Catholics in their own lifetimes and would have specifically wanted a Mass, even if their family is not practicing. 
• Those whose families regularly practice the Catholic Faith through weekly Sunday Mass. 

 

Additionally, prayers can be offered before and after the ceremony/Mass: 

• Vigil: A rosary can be prayed by the priest 30 minutes before the ceremony in the church if you so desire. 
• Committal: After the ceremony/Mass, the remains of deceased can be laid to rest in his/her funeral site. 
• This can include either a casket or an urn. 
• This is generally done immediately after the funeral at a nearby cemetery. If the cemetery is not close, please contact the parish closest to the burial site so they can provide this rite. 

Please note: The Church has asked that we respect the deceased’s body by not spreading his/her ashes. Please contact us if this is something you were thinking about doing so that we can help you with another acceptable option.