# Catholic funerals

> A Catholic funeral usually has three parts: a vigil or reception of the body into church the evening before, a Requiem (funeral) Mass, and the rite of committal at the grave or crematorium. The Church permits cremation but prefers burial, and asks that ashes are buried or placed in a sacred place rather than scattered or kept at home.

Source: https://funeralfinder.org/faiths/catholic/ — FuneralFinder

## Key facts

- **Burial or cremation:** Both are permitted; burial is preferred
- **Ashes:** Should be buried or interred in a sacred place — not scattered, divided or kept at home
- **Service:** Vigil (often the night before), Funeral Mass or funeral liturgy, and committal
- **Who to contact:** The parish priest of the person who died, alongside your funeral director
- **Afterwards:** A Month’s Mind Mass and anniversary Masses; Mass cards are a common gesture

## What happens at a Catholic funeral

- Vigil / reception into church — the coffin is often received into church the evening before, with prayers, and may stay there overnight.

- Funeral Mass (Requiem Mass) — readings, a homily, the Eucharist and the final commendation. If Mass isn’t possible, a funeral liturgy outside Mass can be celebrated.

- Rite of committal — at the graveside or crematorium.

A short personal tribute is often allowed, usually before the final commendation — parishes and dioceses have their own guidance, so check with the priest early.

## Cremation and ashes in Catholic teaching

The Catholic Church has permitted cremation since 1963, but it still prefers burial. Its 2016 instruction Ad resurgendum cum Christo asks that ashes are kept in a sacred place — such as a cemetery, churchyard or columbarium — and not scattered, divided among relatives or kept at home.
Every family and community is different. Use this as a starting point, follow the wishes of the person who died, and ask their faith leader or community for guidance.

## Etiquette

- **What to wear:** Dark or muted, smart clothing.
- **What to say:** “I’m so sorry for your loss”, or “May they rest in peace.” Offering a Mass card is a traditional gesture of sympathy.
- **Flowers:** Flowers are welcome; some families ask for donations to a charity or the parish instead.

## FAQs

### Can Catholics be cremated?

Yes. The Church allows cremation but prefers burial, and asks that ashes are buried or kept in a sacred place rather than scattered or kept at home.

### Can you have a eulogy at a Catholic funeral?

Usually a short tribute is allowed, often before the final commendation. Rules vary by parish and diocese, so ask the priest.

### What is a Month’s Mind?

A Mass celebrated about a month after the death to pray for the person who died — a particularly strong tradition in Irish Catholic families.