Readings
The Liturgy of the Word at funerals follows the same pattern of a weekend Mass. We welcome family members and friends of the deceased to choose the readings and also to proclaim them. Suggested readings may be viewed by clicking on the link below:
Funeral readings (PDF download).
Please choose:
- 1 Reading from the Old Testament
- 1 Reading from the New Testament
- 1 Gospel reading.
You may also choose a Responsorial Psalm, which can be found under “Hymn Suggestions” at the bottom of this page.
A member of the family is also invited to lead the assembly in the Prayer of the Faithful.
Music Selections
The following are several hymns appropriate for the funeral liturgy based on the themes of hope, strength, and eternal life with God.
Please choose up to four (4) hymns from the list below, and one Responsorial Psalm. Other choices may be requested, though the music must be of a sacred nature since the Funeral Liturgy is a Mass.
Hymn Suggestions
- Amazing Grace
- Ave Maria
- Be Not Afraid
- Blest Are They
- Dies Irae
- Lux Aeterna
- Eye Has Not Seen
- Hail Mary, Gentle Woman
- Here I Am, Lord
- How Great Thou Art
- I Am the Bread of Life
- Lord of All Hopefulness
- On Eagle’s Wings
- Prayer of St. Francis
- Precious Lord, Take My Hand
- Taste and See the Goodness of the Lord
- The Strife is O’er
- Panis Angelicus
Suggested Responsorial Psalms
- Psalm 23 – Shepherd Me, O God (Haugen)
- Psalm 23 – My Shepherd is the Lord (Gélineau)
- Psalm 23 – To You O Lord, I Lift My Soul (Haugen)
- Psalm 27 – The Lord is My Light
- Psalm 103 – The Lord is Kind and Merciful (Haugen)
Reflection on the Life of the Deceased
(sometimes referred to as a eulogy)
Either before Mass or after Communion, one person may take a few minutes to sum up the thoughts and feelings of all the family and friends of the deceased. We ask for only one person and only 5 minutes, as there is time also at the wake and perhaps at a funeral reception to share more stories, memories, thoughts, and feelings. Take the time to select this person, someone who can sum up everyone’s thoughts, not only their own. It’s also good to ask someone who will be able to remain composed through their presentation, perhaps someone one step removed.
Regarding all of the above, the music, readings, prayer of the faithful, offertory procession, and reflection on the life of the deceased, please do not hesitate to ask the priest for help. These are simply guidelines to help make the funeral planning easier for you.
For Funeral Homes
Funeral Home Letter 2023 (PDF)