If your loved one specifically requested a traditional catholic burial before they died, the funeral home in Bronx, NY that you contact may be able to arrange such a burial. Religious people of the Catholic denomination understand the rituals and rules of the church concerning such burials. If you have no idea what happens at a traditional catholic funeral, here are some activities you should expect.
What The Catholic Church Believes About Death
The Catholic faith views death as a transition to another way of existence. They view the body as a container for the soul, which leaves the body after death. But the body is also the Temple of the Holy Spirit meaning that even after death it should be treated with respect. According to the Catholic religion, the soul either goes to heaven, hell or purgatory (between hell and heaven). So, all the rituals and prayers that may be performed at your loved one’s funeral are based on these beliefs.
Catholic Funerals Are Divided Into Three Parts
You should expect a prayer vigil, the funeral mass, and the committal at Catholic Funeral. A priest will preside over these services. A prayer vigil is also known as a wake or reception and may take place at a funeral home or happen at the church or home of the deceased the night before the funeral. Friends and family gather at a wake to pray for the deceased and to view the body. They also deliver eulogies, recite poems, and listen to readings from the scripture.
A Funeral Mass Is A Profoundly Moving Event
Another part of a catholic funeral is funeral mass, which involves taking communion, prayers, music, and hymns. The event happens at the church so the priest is the one that will be receiving and greeting mourners at the door of the church. You may see the priest sprinkling holy water on the casket before the mass begins. Family members are allowed to place photos of the deceased and mass cards on the casket while the flowers are placed on a table near the casket.
Reading Scripture And Taking Eucharist
Normally, each close family member is given a chance to read scripture during the funeral mass. The priest also reads verses from the Bible and expounds or explains the meaning of what has been read. If the priest knew your loved one, he may say something about your loved one. After all this, family and friends take the consecrated bread and wine, which is called taking communion. The priest will then recite a prayer for the deceased while sprinkling holy water and also incenses the casket. A committal happens after the funeral mass at the graveside. At the grave, the priest prays as the casket is lowered into the grave.
This is a summary of what the catholic funeral service for your loved one may look like. Our staff can help you understand our cremation service in Bronx, NY, and how you can have a catholic funeral service followed by cremation.