At the death of a Christian, whose life of faith was begun at the waters of baptism and strengthened at the Eucharistic table, the Church intercedes on behalf of the deceased. The Church also ministers to the sorrowing and consoles them in the funeral rites with the comforting Word of God and the sacrament of the Eucharist. The Mass, the memorial of Christ’s death and resurrection, is the principal celebration of the Christian Funeral. The participation of the family and all others gathered for the Mass is encouraged and welcomed.
Relatives and friends of the deceased are invited and urged to participate by reading the Scriptures of the Mass, by offering aloud the Prayers of the Faithful, and by presenting the gifts of bread and wine. In a meeting with the parish Funeral Planner before the service, the family will be aided in choosing appropriate Scripture readings, musical selections, and the wording of the Prayers of the Faithful. Music is an integral part of the liturgical celebration and is always included in the Funeral Liturgy.