Catholic funeral directors in the UK

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. FuneralFinder lists 0 specialist funeral directors and 3,234 Catholic churches across the UK, with local Catholic funeral guides for 71 towns and cities.

Catholic funeral services by town

Where the most Catholic churches are

Catholic funerals: 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

Read the full guide to Catholic funerals →

Frequently asked questions

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.