A Step-by-Step Guide to Plan a Catholic Funeral Service

Making Funeral Arrangements for You or a Loved One

Whether you are pre-planning your own funeral or organizing a funeral ceremony for a loved one, it is important to follow certain guidelines when arranging a Catholic funeral service. This article may be used as a guideline when making Catholic funeral arrangements.

There are several things to keep in mind when planning a Catholic funeral – one of the first things to do is contact the pastor of the deceased once the death certificate has been issued. In the Catholic faith, the priest would already be aware of the parishioner’s passing, as he would have administered Last Rites upon his or her death bed. If there is a priest that was requested by the deceased (or one who may provide comfort to the grieving family), you may ask your pastor if they are available to provide services at this time.

Next, you will want to research funeral homes to determine the best funeral solutions for your family. You may use our Funeral Agent services to locate a local funeral home and director, as well as transportation and other needs. If you prefer to do this yourself and you’re not sure where to find a funeral home in your area, you can look online for local funeral providers. It’s also helpful to ask family and friends for recommendations, if possible, since you’ll be working closely with your funeral director. When you meet with the funeral staff, you can discuss details such as what type of services and products will be provided, where to locate a casket, transporting of the deceased, the Rite of Committal (graveside service) and so forth.

Following these steps, you will want to determine where the wake (also known in the Catholic faith as a Vigil) will be held, what prayers will be said at each ceremony, including the Vigil, the Funeral Mass and the Committal Service, and the deceased’s final resting place. Other elements – such as the selection of music or songs to accompany the mass, what type of flower arrangements will be used, if family or friends will partake in any part of the eulogy, and other customs or rituals – should be discussed with immediate family to ensure things run as smoothly as possible.

Finally, you will want to notify family, friends and other loved ones about the date, time and location of your beloved’s funeral service. Contact your local newspapers once arrangements have been made so that those who knew the deceased may pay their last respects.