By Kathy Fanger

When a loved one dies , the richness of our Catholic Funeral Rites brings hope and consolation to the living . All present experience great comfort in the beautiful prayers , scriptures , psalms and songs offered at the Vigil , Mass and Committal ( burial ) services . These sacred Rites give praise and thanksgiving to God for the gift of a life which now has been returned to God . The family , friends and Church community give thanks for the life of the deceased offering consolation to one another .

The Funeral Rites may be planned with the assistance of the priest , deacon , or parish staff . They assist you with the selection of Scripture readings , music and general intercessions that speak to the life of your loved one , reminding you of your faith in our merciful God who promises eternal life .

The Vigil comforts those present with prayer , scripture and song . This is the most appropriate time for eulogies , always given outside the sacredness of the Funeral Liturgy .

The Funeral Mass , the memorial of Christ ’ s Death and Resurrection , is the principal celebration of the Christian funeral . Around the Eucharistic table , the Church proclaims that God has created each person for eternal life . Beginning at the door of the church , the body of the deceased is received and mourners welcomed . The priest sprinkles the coffin with holy water . A pall , a white cloth recalling the white garment in which the deceased was clothed at baptism , is draped over the coffin . Symbols may include the Easter Candle – a reminder of Christ ’ s undying presence , his victory over sin and death , and our share in this victory . Holy water recalls the saving waters of baptism when the deceased was claimed for Christ . Incense honors the body , which through baptism became the temple of the Holy Spirit . Other options include the presence of an urn at the altar or a Memorial Mass without the body present .

Music is integral to the Funeral Rites , often expressing convictions and feelings that words alone may fail to convey . Selections should offer hope in the Paschal mystery of the Lord ’ s suffering

, death and triumph over death . Specially chosen scripture readings speak to ways the deceased lived out the Gospel message .

The Liturgy of the Eucharist continues where the gifts of bread and wine are transformed into the Body and Blood of Christ . At the conclusion of the Mass , the priest states , “ In peace , let us take our brother / sister to the place of rest .” Often a song of farewell is sung .

Committal , at the cemetery , is the final resting place . Scripture and prayers regarding hope in the resurrection are offered asking God to welcome the deceased at the table of God ’ s children in heaven . The grieving may be comforted knowing they will be reunited with their loved one .

Catholic Cemeteries of the Diocese of San Jose encourages you to think , pray and discuss your services with your family , and even prepare your wishes before death . Catholic Cemeteries and your parishes have resources to help you . For a free legacy planning guide to assist you , contact Catholic Cemeteries at cemeteryinfo @ dsj . org , or visit our website where we have resources to help you at www . ccdsj . org .

Annual parish Bereavement Ministers ’ Soup Supper

March 30 , 6:30 – 9 pm Saint Martin of Tours – Community Building RSVP : by March 27 Call ( 650 ) 428-3730 , free .

Ching Ming Rosary and Mass Remembrance of Ancestors

April 1 , Rosary 10 a . m .; Mass 10:30 a . m . ( Bilingual : Mandarin / English ) Gate of Heaven Catholic Cemetery All Saints Chapel Celebrant : Father Alberto Olivera Sponsored by San Jose Chinese Catholic Mission and Catholic Cemeteries