(c) Explain three features of a Catholic funeral rite. Flashcards
The Vigil on the evening before the funeral: usually the body is taken to
the church where the funeral will take place and people gather in the
presence of the body to pray for the person’s soul
The funeral liturgy can occur within a Mass, or by itself. It will always
include readings from the Bible and a Gospel that will remind the
congregation of the hope and promise of eternal life, prayers for the dead
and special blessings.
The paschal candle will always be lit as a reminder of the resurrection.
The casket will be sprinkled with holy water as a reminder of the person’s
baptism and as a sign of farewell.
The priest and the people will then accompany the body to the place of
burial or cremation, where prayers are said as the body is finally laid to
rest. This is called the “Rite of Committal” which reminds people that
eventually they will all return to dust.
