Catholic funeral liturgy outside Mass

Used on days when a funeral Mass is not allowed (holy days of obligation that are solemnities, Holy Thursday, the Easter Triduum, and the Sundays of Advent, Lent and Easter), or when the pastor and family judge it better (Order of Christian Funerals, no. 178). There is no Communion hymn or preparation of the gifts.

Structure only13 partsStart a program from it

Plan with this order

1. Reception of the body

   At the church door the priest greets the family, sprinkles the coffin with holy water and the pall is placed over it.

2. Entrance hymn · a hymn
3. Opening prayer

   Said by the priest.

4. First reading · a reading

   From the Old Testament (in the Easter season, it may come from Acts or Revelation). Read by a family member or friend.

   See the old testament options

5. Responsorial psalm · a psalm

   Usually sung by the cantor.

6. Second reading · a reading

   From the New Testament. Read by a family member or friend.

   See the new testament options

7. Gospel · a reading

   Read by the priest or deacon.

   See the gospel options

8. Homily

   Given by the priest or deacon. The Church asks that it not be a eulogy.

9. Prayer of the faithful

   Often read by a family member.

10. Words of remembrance (if your parish allows) · your own words

    Many parishes allow one short remembrance by a family member before the final commendation; others ask that it be given at the vigil or the reception. Ask your parish.

11. Final commendation and song of farewell · a hymn

    The coffin is incensed while the song of farewell is sung.

12. Recessional hymn · a hymn
13. Rite of committal

    At the cemetery or mausoleum.

Source: Order of Christian Funerals (1989), nos. 177–178. The Church’s ritual texts are copyrighted and are not reproduced. Your priest or deacon leads the rite; your parish confirms every choice.