Funerals

INTRODUCTION

Confronted with the deep mystery of death, human words are totally inadequate. The only word that carries authority is the Word of God. In the course of the Funeral Liturgy, we try to let that Word speak to the hearts of all who are grieving, so that all might hear and be comforted by the Christian message, that life is changed, not ended; when the body of our earthly dwelling lies in death, we gain an everlasting dwelling place in heaven.

The Funeral Liturgy can be a most helpful step in the grieving process, so it is desirable that the relatives of the deceased work closely with the Priest in the preparation of the Funeral Liturgy. The readings from Scripture provide an opportunity to choose texts that speak to the bereaved in their own particular situation of grief.  It is to be hoped that the following will help in the task of choosing suitable readings.

 

Usually, at a Funeral Liturgy, a person will read one reading from the Old Testament and one Psalm. A second person will then read one reading from the New Testament and one Gospel Acclamation. It should be noted that sometimes the Responsorial Psalm and Gospel Acclamation are sung.  To summarise:

1st Reader: one Old Testament reading and
   one Responsorial Psalm (if not being sung)
2nd Reader: one New Testament reading and
   one Gospel Acclamation (if not being sung)

Gospel Readings are not printed here. However, if you would like to discuss the choice of Gospel text, please feel free to consult the Priest who will be presiding at the Funeral Liturgy.  Please also feel free to discuss with the Priest the preparation of the Prayer of the Faithful and Offertory Procession.

The Priests of the Parish of Cahersiveen will be glad to discuss any aspect of the Funeral Liturgy with you.  It is our wish that the Liturgy will be a time of prayer for your loved one and of consolation and hope for you.

 

Click here for 1st Readings

Click here for Responsorial Psalms

Click here for 2nd Readings