Catholic funeral Mass
The Catholic Church sets the structure in the Order of Christian Funerals. The family usually chooses the readings, music, and who reads.
- Reception of the body: greeting at the church door, sprinkling with holy water, the pall placed on the casket, entrance procession and song.
- Liturgy of the Word: first reading (usually from the Old Testament), responsorial psalm, second reading (New Testament), Gospel acclamation, the Gospel, the homily, and the universal prayer (prayers of the faithful).
- Liturgy of the Eucharist: preparation of the gifts, the Eucharistic prayer and Communion.
- Final commendation: invitation to prayer, silence, the song of farewell and the prayer of commendation. A brief word of remembrance by a family member may be allowed here, depending on the parish.
- Procession to the place of committal.
A rosary or vigil is often held the evening before, at the funeral home or church.
Homegoing service (Baptist and many Black churches)
Orders vary by church, but a homegoing celebration commonly includes:
- Processional and viewing, with the family entering last
- Hymn or selection by the choir
- Scripture readings, Old and New Testament
- Prayer of comfort
- Selection
- Acknowledgment of cards and condolences, and reading of the obituary
- Tributes or reflections from family and friends
- Selection
- Eulogy (the sermon)
- Recessional and committal
Celebration of life
A celebration of life has no fixed order. Many follow this outline:
- Welcome and opening words
- A reading, poem or song
- The life story
- Shared memories from family and friends, sometimes open to anyone
- A slideshow or video of photos
- Closing words and a toast, a song, or a moment of silence
- Invitation to the reception
Our celebration of life planning guide covers venues, music and sharing the details.
Military funeral honors
Federal law entitles eligible veterans to funeral honors. At minimum that is a detail of at least two uniformed members of the armed forces, the folding and presentation of the United States flag to the next of kin, and the playing of Taps. The family or funeral home requests honors in advance. Honors are usually rendered at the graveside after the religious service, and some families add a rifle volley if available.
Writing it in the program
List each part on its own line with the name of the person leading it, for example "Scripture reading · Rev. James Carter." Print the words of any hymn or prayer you want guests to join. Keep the burial and reception details at the end so people know where to go next.