Funerals
The promise of eternal life with God once the earthly journey of a faithful disciple has ended is the greatest hope, comfort and strength of our Catholic faith.
A Catholic funeral traditionally includes three parts: a vigil (wake) service in a funeral home or church, the funeral Mass in the church, and committal prayers at the cemetery. Each stage of the funeral rites provides the celebrant and the family of the deceased with several options. 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 pray for the deceased, to grieve as a community of faith, and to focus on our eternal destiny in Jesus Christ.
Planning a Funeral Mass
Funeral Masses are typically scheduled through the funeral home. If you are not using a funeral home, please contact our office at 603-882-0632 to schedule the Funeral Mass.
The prescribed readings for the Funeral Mass can be viewed by clicking the button below.
Words of Remembrance
A Mass of Christian Burial makes present the hope of eternal life for the soul of the deceased and those who grieve. It is a sacred encounter with the mystery of Christ’s suffering, death, and Resurrection. While we want to remember the life of the deceased at the Funeral Mass, the best times for loved ones to offer eulogies and stories are at the Vigil Service (Wake), the Rite of Committal (Burial), or family gathering. However, if circumstances necessitate a short reflection to be given at Mass, then Words of Remembrance may be offered to highlight the faith, virtues, and spiritual gifts of the deceased. Resembling a prayer, they should help foster gratitude to God for the special ways in which He blessed the deceased. Words of Remembrance must be written and submitted to the pastor for approval at least 24 hours prior to the Funeral Mass.
Click on the link below for the complete guidelines for the Words of Remembrance.
Contact Us
(603) 882-0632
