The celebration of a Funeral Mass in the Catholic tradition, demonstrates our faith in Christ Jesus’ victory over death and our personal involvement in the resurrection. During the Mass there are songs and readings, prayers and blessings, ceremonies and symbols that are specifically used to express our faith. Below are some of the elements present at a Funeral Mass:
The Priest’s Vestments Color: The clergy usually wear white vestments. The color white normally represents Easter, weddings, baptisms and other events of happiness, joy and victory. This is not only a time for grieving over the loss of loved one but a celebration of their entrance through death into life eternal.
Music: The hymns and songs generally selected for a Funeral Mass are light and joyful. Easter music proclaiming the Lord’s resurrection is appropriate.
Scriptural Readings: There are more than seventy scriptural readings available for a funeral liturgy. Typically the first reading is chosen from the Old Testament, the second reading is selected from the New Testament, and finally a reading from one of the Gospels.
The Easter or Paschal Candle: This Paschal Candle symbolizes the risen Christ living among us who has conquered sin and death. This candle is carried in procession or placed before the casket as a reminder that the deceased shares in this victory of Jesus over the powers of darkness.
Sprinkling of the Casket: The priest sprinkles holy water over the casket as a reminder of the deceased’s baptism.
Incensing of the Body: The priest walks around the casket and incenses the body. This is a sign of our respect; a symbol of the community’s prayers for the deceased rising.
Presentation of the Gifts: During the Funeral Mass family members or friends are encouraged to bring the bread and wine to the altar.
Holy Communion: The church encourages those present to share in Holy Communion, and especially under both kinds if offered.
Placing of the Pall: At the beginning of a Funeral Mass a special funeral pall (large white clothe) is draped over the coffin. This symbolizes the garment we are given at baptism and our future life in Christ. This pall also signifies that all are equal in the eyes of God. Family or friends are encouraged to participate in the draping of the pall.
Funeral Homily & Family Remarks: Based on the scriptural readings, the priest or deacon will give a brief homily weaving aspects of the deceased life and the reasons these scriptures were chosen into the message. Under certain conditionals, occasionally a friend or family member may speak briefly in remembrance of the deceased after the communion prayer and before the final commendation.
Final Commendation & Committal: The ritual of the final farewell or commendation and committal is the last ritual at the Funeral Mass and concludes at the cemetery graveside.