Celebrando la vida y la fe: Catholic Funeral Rites
For Catholics, funerals are a time of faith as well as mourning. As believers grieve for the loss of a loved one from this earth, they also give thanks to Christ for his mercy and celebrate his victory over sin and death.
The funeral rite is divided into three stages. All three work together to provide for the emotional and spiritual needs of the mourners. Latina Funerals & Cremations will work with your church to manage the scheduling, preparation, and transportation so your loved one is taken care of for your final goodbye.
El servicio de vigilia
The vigil or wake is the first funeral rite. It usually takes place at the funeral home or in the family home of the deceased. The vigil gives friends and family time to gather in the presence of the body and to say goodbye. It’s a time for expressing condolences and sharing memories and stories. It’s also an opportunity to celebrate the life of your loved one and commend them to God.
At the vigil, a priest or deacon may preside to lead mourners in prayer. There may be readings from scripture, hymns, and other liturgy. Many also find comfort in praying the rosary or novenas at this time.
La liturgia funeral
In most cases, the funeral itself is accompanied by a Mass and will occur at the parish church. A priest will lead the service, which follows a standard program. Your loved one’s body will be received at the church and sprinkled with holy water. The casket will be draped with a special white cloth called a pall, and a crucifix or Bible will be placed on it. The priest will read passages of Scripture and lead mourners in hymns. Afterward, Catholic mourners will step forward to receive communion.
It is not common for a eulogy to be delivered at a Catholic funeral. Eulogies are considered more appropriate for the vigil service. If you do wish for your loved one to be eulogized at the funeral Mass, the words will need to be approved in advance by the priest, and it should be kept brief. The eulogy will be shared after the rite of communion. You may also request specific hymns and scripture from an approved list. Speak with your priest to decide on what shall be read during the service.
Non-Catholics are welcome at the funeral Mass to offer their support to the grieving family. They are encouraged to light a candle upon entering and may participate in singing and prayer. However, they may not receive communion.
El Rito del Compromiso
The rite of committal takes place at the cemetery where your loved one’s body or cremated remains will be buried. It is a simple service usually presided over by a priest or deacon. The service may consist of a short scriptural reading, The Lord’s Prayer, and a blessing. If your loved one was a veteran, their military honors will also be performed at this time.
Most of the time, the rite of committal takes place immediately after the funeral Mass, with a procession from the church to the cemetery. However, the committal service can happen on a different day if your loved one is to be cremated or if their body will be transported internationally for burial.
A traditional funeral service is a beautiful and meaningful way to honor your loved one’s faith and heritage. Estamos contigo en este momento difícil. Let nuestra funeraria handle the details of planning so you may focus on the power of prayer and drawing from the strength of your community as you say goodbye to the person you love.
Go en paz.
As members of Denver’s Hispanic communities, we feel a deep responsibility to help its families through some of their most difficult days. We are here for you and your loved ones, and our staff is available to answer any questions you may have.
Llámanos al (303) 996-0701.
