Nativity in Torrance

Funeral

In my Father's house there are many dwelling places...

— John 14:2

The Vigil usually takes place at a mortuary service the night before the funeral.
The presider may be a priest, a deacon, or a lay minister.
The Vigil usually includes an opening invitation and prayer, a reading or a gospel or both, a reflection, a series of petitions concluded with the Our Father, and the final blessing.
The Rosary may be recited as part of the service.
Eulogies may be offered at the end of the Vigil, if not saved for the funeral the next day.

The funeral Mass takes place in a Catholic church or chapel.
The body of the baptized Catholic, kept in a casket, may be present.
Eulogies may be offered after Holy Communion. Please discuss with the presider regarding number and time limits.
Note: Holy Communion is reserved for practicing Catholics.

First Reading is taken from the Old Testament and may be read by a practicing Catholic family member or friend.
Responsorial Psalm may be sung by the cantor or read by the first reader.
Second Reading is taken from the Epistles in the New Testament and may be read by a family member or friend.
The Gospel is read by the presider or his assistant deacon or priest.

Family may choose the readings and gospel by clicking on them as highlighted above.

Family provide flowers.
Please discuss with parish staff to ensure proper reception of delivery and arrangement in church.

For further reading, go to the U.S. Bishops' site.

The burial, arranged by the family with the mortuary service, takes place at the cemetery.
The celebrant of the rite may be a priest, a deacon, or lay minister.
Prayers of blessing of the grave and farewell are used.
The Rite is usually less than half an hour long.

Incense (Body present)

Holy Water