Funeral Planning

A Catholic funeral is a reflection on the paschal mystery, that is, the death and resurrection of Jesus, who alone has conquered our sinfulness, risen from the dead, and made the promise of eternal life for his friends. As such, it is not so much a celebration of the decedent’s life but a celebration of the life of the decedent’s savior, Jesus Christ, a great act of thanksgiving to him. At the same time it commends the life and body of the decedent to the Lord. Therefore it offers hope and consolation to loved ones and mourners. 

The funeral rites contain a rich variety of scriptural readings and prayers from which to choose. Regardless of which specific options are chosen, a Catholic funeral is always a time to pause and grieve, to renew our love for Jesus Christ and for one another, and to reflect on the eternal destiny of our creation and redemption by God.