Funeral Rites

Funeral Rites

What Funeral rites are celebrated when a person is cremated?
The Church strongly prefers that the cremation take place after the full Funeral liturgy with the body. However, when this is not possible, such as when the remains must be transported over a long distance, all the usual rites, which are celebrated with a body present, may also be celebrated in the presence of the cremated remains. In an appendix to the Order of Christian Funerals, the United States bishops have included prayers to be used when the cremated remains of a loved one are present in church.

The following rituals may be celebrated:
    • Prayers After Death
    • Gathering in the Presence of the Body
    • Vigil for the Deceased
    • Funeral Mass or Funeral Liturgy Outside Mass
    • Rite of Committal


Should I schedule a Funeral Mass before or after cremation?
The Church strongly prefers cremations to take place after the Funeral Mass. However, if it is not possible for the body to be present at the Funeral Mass, an indult has been granted by the Holy See which provides for the celebration of the Mass or Funeral liturgy with the cremated remains in church.


Do I need permission to have cremated remains in church for the Funeral liturgy?
The indult granting the diocesan bishops of the United States authority to permit a Funeral liturgy in the presence of cremated remains (in place of the body) requires two things. First, the diocesan bishop must authorize this practice for his diocese. For the Diocese of Raleigh, Bishop Burbidge has already authorized it. Second, each individual case requires approval of the Pastor.


What happens at the Funeral Mass with cremated remains?
A journey, which began at baptism, comes to conclusion as we enter into eternal life. Significant attention should be given to the primary symbols of the Catholic Funeral liturgy, as stated in the Order of Christian Funerals and its commentaries. The paschal candle and sprinkling with holy water are primary symbols of baptism and are used during the Funeral Mass. However, the pall is not used. Photos and other mementos may be used at the vigil, but are not appropriate for the Mass. During the Funeral Mass, the cremated remains should be treated with the same dignity and respect as the body. They are to be sealed in a worthy vessel. They are carried in procession and placed on a table adjacent to the Easter candle.


How much time elapses from the Funeral Mass until the remains are interred in the columbarium?
If the body is present at the Funeral Mass, the funeral director will advise you on the time necessary to cremate the body. Usually, it is a day or two. The internment then follows. If the cremated remains are present at the Funeral Mass, typically interment immediately follows the Mass.


Is a ritual conducted when the remains are interred in the columbarium?
Yes. The Rite of Committal is very similar to the service conducted at a grave site in a cemetery.