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FUNERALS

UNITED STATES CATHOLIC CONFERENCE





THE ROMAN RITUAL

REVISED BY DECREE OF THE SECOND VATICAN COUNCIL

AND PUBLISHED BY AUTHORITY OF POPE PAUL VI

RITE

of

FUNERALS

Study Edition

1971

UNITED STATES CATHDLIC CONFERENCE

1312 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.

Washington, D.C. 20005



English translation of the Rite of Funerals

(except as noted below)

Copyright© 1970, International Committee on English
in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved.

Remembrance of baptismal symbols in the introductory

rites and invocation at the final commendation approved

by the National Conference of Catholic Bishops

for use in the United States.

English translation of the greeting (of the Mass)

Copyright© 1969, International Committee on English
in the Liturgy, Inc. All rights reserved.

Scripture Readings from New

American Bible © 1970 by
Confraternity of Christian Doctrine.

Used with permission.



CONTENTS

Page

Decree of the Congregation for Divine Worship 1

Foreword 2

Introduction 3

Chapter

I Vigil for the Deceased and Prayer When the

Body is Placed on the Bier 12

Appendix 15

II First Plan of the Funeral Rite with Stations

in the Home of the Deceased, in the

Church, and at the Cemetery 25

III Second Plan of the Funeral Rite with Stations

in the Cemetery Chapel and at the Grave

or Tomb 46

IV Third Plan of the Funeral Rite Celebrated in

the Home of the Deceased 55

V Funerals of Children 56

VI Various Texts Used in the Order of

Funerals for Adults 57

VII Various Texts for Funerals of Baptized

Children 78

VIII Various Texts for Funerals of Children

Who Die Before Baptism 82

iii



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SACRED CONGREGATION FOR DIVINE WORSHIP

Prot. n. 720/69

DECREE

It has been the Church's custom in the funeral rites not only to

commend the dead to God but also to support the Christian hope

of the people and give witness to its faith in the future resurrec-

tion of the baptized with Christ.

For this reason the Second Vatican Council in its Constitution on

the Liturgy directed that the funeral services be revised to express

more clearly the paschal character of Christian death, and that

the rite for the burial of infants be given a special Mass (art. 81-82).

The Consilium for the Implementation of the Constitution on the

Liturgy prepared these rites and offered them for experiment in

various regions of the world. Now Pope Paul VI, by his apostolic

authority, has approved the rites and directed that they be pub-

lished for the use of all who follow the Roman Ritual.

This Congregation for Divine Worship, at the direction of the

pope, therefore promulgates the Rite of Funerals and decrees that

it shall take effect beginning June 1, 1970.

The Congregation decrees, moreover, that, if funeral services are

celebrated in Latin, either this rite or the one in the Roman Ritual

may be used until June 1, 1970; only this new Rite of Funerals

may be used from that date.

It is for the individual conferences of bishops, after a translation

has been prepared and has been confirmed by this Congregation,

to determine another date prior to June 1 for the new rite to go

into effect, according to circumstances.

Anything to the contrary notwithstanding.

From the Sacred Congregation for Divine Worship, August 15,

1969, the solemnity of the Assumption.

Benno Card. Gut

Prefect

A. Bugnini

Secretary

1



FOREWORD

This edition of the Rite for Funerals
,
for use in the dioceses of

the United States, is for the most part an English translation of

the Ordo Exsequiarum, in the version prepared by the Interna-

tional Committee on English in the Liturgy, approved by the

National Conference of Catholic Bishops, and confirmed by the

Apostolic See.

To this have been added adaptations for the United States, in

accord with nos. 21 and 22 of the Introduction, made by the

episcopal conference and approved by the Apostolic See. Such

adaptations have been clearly indicated by inclusion in brackets

or boxes or by a phrase referring to their use in this country (see

Introduction, no. 21, 6).

For the convenience of the minister, the optional alternative

texts—found in Chapter VI—have also been printed in Chapter II,
which is the rite ordinarily followed in the United States. For

completeness, rites or variants never or rarely used in this country

(funeral processions, funeral in the home, etc.) have been in-

cluded in this edition.

The principal rearrangement of the text occurs at the end of

Chapter II. Since the final commendation may take place either

after the funeral Mass ("First Station") or at the grave or tomb

("Third Station"), it has been printed in its entirety in both places.

If the rite of commendation is celebrated in the church after

Mass, the first form (A) of the Third Station is followed at the

grave or tomb. If the rite of commendation is postponed, the

alternative form (B) of the Third Station is followed at the grave

or tomb.

In the case of optional alternative texts, the choice has been

indicated by the use of the letters A, B, C, etc. The numbering of

prayers and rubrics in the Ordo Exsequiarum has been retained

for purposes of simpler cross reference.

In addition, an introductory note has been placed at the head

of some chapters. These notes are intended to suggest the prin-

cipal alternatives available in the planning of the service by the

priest together with the family of the deceased person and others

(see Introduction, no. 23-25).

2



INTRODUCTION

1. In the funeral rites the Church celebrates the paschal mystery

of Christ. Those who in baptism have become one with the dead

and risen Christ will pass with him from death to life, to be puri-

fied in soul and welcomed into the fellowship of the saints in

heaven. They look forward in blessed hope to his second coming

and the bodily resurrection of the dead.

The Church therefore celebrates the eucharistic sacrifice of

Christ's passover for the dead, and offers prayers and petitions for

them. In the communion of all Christ's members, the prayers

which bring spiritual help to some may bring to others a consoling

hope.

2. In celebrating the funeral rites of their brothers and sisters,

Christians should certainly affirm their hope in eternal life, but in

such a way that they do not seem to neglect or ignore the feeling

and practice of their own time and place. Family traditions, local

customs, groups established to take care of funerals, anything that

is good may be used freely, but anything alien to the Gospel

should be changed so that funeral rites for Christians may pro-

claim the paschal faith and the spirit of the Gospel.

3. The bodies of the faithful, which were temples of the Holy

Spirit, should be shown honor and respect, but any kind of pomp

or display should be avoided. Between the time of death and

burial there should be sufficient opportunities for the people to

pray for the dead and profess their own faith in eternal life.

Depending on local custom, the significant times during this

period would seem to be the following: the vigil in the home of

the deceased; the time when the body is laid out; the assembly

of the relatives and, if possible, the whole community, to receive

hope and consolation in the liturgy of the word, to offer the

eucharistic sacrifice, and to bid farewell to the deceased in the

final commendation, followed by the carrying of the body to the

grave or tomb.

3



4. The rite of funerals for adults has been arranged in three

plans to take into account conditions in all parts of the world.

a) The first plan provides for three stations: in the home of

the deceased, in the church, and at the cemetery;

b) the second plan has two stations: in the cemetery chapel

and at the grave;

c) the third plan has one station, at the home of the deceased.

5. The first plan is the one found until now in the Roman Ritual.

Ordinarily it includes three stations, at least when celebrated in

rural areas. These stations are in the home of the deceased, in

the church, and at the cemetery, with two intervening proces-

sions. Such processions, however, are uncommon or inconvenient

for various reasons, especially in large cities. On the other hand,

priests are frequently unable to lead the services in the home and

at the cemetery because of the limited number of clergy or the

distance from the church to the cemetery. The faithful themselves

should therefore be urged to recite the appointed prayers and

psalms in the absence of a priest or deacon; if this is impossible,

the stations in the home and at the cemetery may be omitted.

6. According to this first plan, the station in the church usually

includes the celebration of the funeral Mass. The latter is pro-

hibited only during the triduum of Holy Week, on solemnities,

and on the Sundays of Advent, Lent, and the Easter season. For

pastoral reasons the funeral rites may be celebrated in church on

such days but without Mass (which should be celebrated on an-

other day if possible). In such cases the celebration of the liturgy

of the word is prescribed. Thus the station in the church will

always include the liturgy of the word, with or without the

eucharistic sacrifice, and will be completed by the rite formerly

called the "absolution" of the deceased and now called the "final

commendation and farewell."

7. The second plan has only two stations, in the cemetery chapel

and at the grave. The eucharistic celebration is not provided for,

but it will take place,' in the absence of the body, either before or

after the funeral.

8. The funeral rite, according to the third plan, is to be cele-

brated in the home of the deceased. In some places this plan is

4



not at all useful, but in some regions it is actually necessary. In

view of the variety of circumstances, specific points have not been

considered, but it seemed desirable to mention this rite so that

it may include elements common to the others, for example,

in the liturgy of the word and in the rite of final commendation

and farewell. For the rest the conferences of bishops may make

their own arrangements.

9. When particular rituals are prepared in harmony with the new

Roman Ritual, the conference of bishops may retain the three

plans for funeral rites, change the order, or omit one or other of

them. It may be that in a country a single plan, for example, the

first one with three stations, is the only one in use and therefore

should be retained to the exclusion of the others; in another

country all three plans may be necessary. The conference of

bishops, after considering pastoral needs, will make suitable

arrangements.

10. After the funeral Mass the rite of final commendation and

farewell is celebrated.

This rite is not to be understood as a purification of the dead

—

which is effected rather by the eucharistic sacrifice—but as the
last farewell with which the Christian community honors one of

its members before the body is buried. Although in death there

is a certain separation, Christians, who are members of Christ

and are one in him, can never be really separated by death.
1

The priest introduces this rite with an invitation to pray: then

follow a period of silence, the sprinkling with holy water, the

incensation, and the song of farewell. The text and melody of

the latter should be such that it may be sung by all present and

be experienced as the climax of this entire rite.

The sprinkling with holy water, which recalls the person's en-

trance into eternal life through baptism, and the incensation,

which honors the body of the deceased as a temple of the Holy

Spirit, may also be considered signs of farewell.

The rite of final commendation and farewell is to be held only

in the funeral celebration itself, that is, with the body present.

In the United States
,
however

,
although the rite of final com-

mendation at the catafalque or pall is excluded
,

it is permitted to

5



celebrate the funeral service
,
including the commendation

,
in

those cases where it is physically or morally impossible for the

body of the deceased person to be present.

11. In celebrations for the dead, whether the funeral service or

any other, emphasis should be given to the biblical readings.

These proclaim the paschal mystery, support the hope of reunion

in the kingdom of God, teach respect for the dead, and encourage

the witness of Christian living.

12. The Church employs the prayer of the psalms in the offices

for the dead to express grief and to strengthen genuine hope.

Pastors must therefore try by appropriate catechesis to lead their

communities to understand and appreciate at least the chief

psalms of the funeral liturgy. When pastoral considerations indi-

cate the use of other sacred songs, these should reflect a "warm

and living love for sacred scripture"
2
and a liturgical spirit.

13. In the prayers, too, the Christian community expresses its

faith and intercedes for adults who have died so that they may

enjoy eternal happiness with God. This is the happiness which

deceased children, made sons of adoption through baptism, are

believed to enjoy already. Prayers are offered for the parents of

these infants, as for the relatives of all the dead, so that in their

sorrow they may experience the consolation of faith.

14. In places where, by particular law, endowment, or custom,

the Office of the Dead is usually said not only at the funeral rites

but also apart from them, this office may continue to be cele-

brated with devotion. In view of the demands of modern life and

pastoral considerations, a vigil or celebration of God's word (nos.

27-29) may take the place of the office.

15. Christian funeral rites are permitted for those who choose to

have their bodies cremated unless it is shown that they have acted

for reasons contrary to Christian principles. See the norms in the

Instruction of the Sacred Congregation of the Holy Office, de

cadaverum crematione, May 8, 1963, nos. 2-3.
3

These funeral rites should be celebrated according to the plan

in use for the region but in a way that does not hide the Church's

preference for the custom of burying the dead in a grave or tomb,

as the Lord himself willed to be buried. In the case of cremation

any danger of scandal or confusion should be removed.

6



The rites ordinarily performed at the cemetery chapel or at the

grave or tomb may be used in the crematory building. If there is

no other suitable place for the rites, they may be celebrated in the

crematory hall itself, provided that the danger of scandal and

religious indifferentism is avoided.

Offices and Ministries Toward the Dead

16. In funeral celebrations all who belong to the people of God

should keep in mind their office and ministry: the parents or

relatives, those who take care of funerals, the Christian com-

munity as a whole, and finally the priest. As teacher of the faith

and minister of consolation, the priest presides over the liturgical

service and celebrates the eucharist.

17. Priests and all others should remember that, when they com-

mend the dead to God in the funeral liturgy, it is their duty to

strengthen the hope of those present and to foster their faith in

the paschal mystery and the resurrection of the dead. In this way

the compassionate kindnessr of Mother Church and the consola-

tion of the faith may lighten the burden of believers without

offending those who mourn.

18. In preparing and arranging funeral celebrations priests

should consider the deceased and the circumstance of his life and

death and be concerned also for the sorrow of the relatives and

their Christian needs. Priests should be especially aware of per-

sons, Catholic or non-Catholic, who seldom or never participate

in the eucharist or who seem to have lost their faith, but who assist

at liturgical celebrations and hear the Gospel on the occasion of

funerals. Priests must remember that they are ministers of Christ's

Gospel to all men.

19. The funeral rites, except the Mass, may be celebrated by a

deacon. If pastoral necessity demands, the conference of bishops

may, with the permission of the Holy See, permit a lay person to

celebrate the service.

In the absence of a priest or deacon, it is urged that in the

funeral rites according to the first plan the stations in the home of

the deceased and at the cemetery be conducted by lay persons;

the same holds for vigil services for the dead.

7



In the United States
,
the local ordinary may depute a lay person ,

/n the absence of a priest or deacon
,
to /eac/ the station in the

church (i.e., the liturgy of the word and the commendation).

20. Apart from distinctions based on liturgical function and

sacred orders and the honors due to civil authorities according to

liturgical law, no special honors are to be paid to any private

persons or classes of persons, whether in the ceremonies or by

external display.
4

Adaptations by the Conferences of Bishops

21. In accordance with article 63b of the Constitution on the

Sacred Liturgy, the conferences of bishops have the right to pre-

pare a section of their particular rituals, which will correspond to

this section of the Roman Ritual but is adapted to the needs of

each region. After review by the Apostolic See it may be used

in the regions for which it has been prepared.

In making this adaptation, it is for the conferences of bishops:

1) To define the adaptations, within the limits stated in this

section of the Roman Ritual.

2) To consider carefully and prudently which elements from

the traditions and cultures of individual countries may be appro-

priately admitted and to submit such other adaptations, which

they feel to be useful or necessary, to the Apostolic See, by whose

consent they may be introduced.

3) To retain or adapt special elements of existing particular

rituals, if any, provided that they can be brought into harmony

with the Constitution on the Liturgy and contemporary needs.

4) To prepare translations of texts which are truly suited to

the genius of the various languages and cultures, adding, when

appropriate, melodies for singing.

5) To adapt and supplement the introductory material of the

Roman Ritual so-that the ministers will fully understand the sig-

nificance of the rites and celebrate them effectively.

6) To arrange the material in the liturgical books prepared

under the direction of the conferences of bishops so that the

order is best suited to pastoral purposes. None of the material

contained in this typical edition is to be omitted.

8



If it seems advisable to add rubrics and texts, they should be

distinguished typographically from the rubrics and texts of the

Roman Ritual.

22. In preparing particular rituals for funerals, it is for the con-

ferences of bishops:

1) To arrange the rite according to one or more plans, as

indicated above in no. 9.

2) To substitute, if preferred, texts from Chapter VI for those

which appear in the basic rite.

3) To add, according to the rule in no. 21 (6) other formulas

of the same kind whenever the Roman Ritual provides a choice

of texts.

4) To judge whether lay persons are to be deputed to cele-

brate the funeral rites (see above, no. 19).

5) To decree, if there are pastoral reasons, that the sprinkling

with holy water and the incensation may be omitted or another

rite substituted.

In the United States
,
the use of holy water may not ordinarily

be omitted
,
but it should be explained with reference to Christian

baptism. The use of incense may be omitted. Neither holy water

nor incense should ordinarily be used more than once during the

station in the church.

6) To determine the liturgical color for funerals in accordance

with popular feeling. The color should not be offensive to human

sorrow but should express Christian hope enlightened by the

paschal mystery.

In the United States
,
white

,
violet

,
or black vestments may be

worn at funeral services and at other offices and Masses for the

dead.

The Function of the Priest in Preparing

and Planning the Celebration

23. The priest should consider the various circumstances, and in

particular, the wishes of the family and the community. He should

make free use of the choices afforded in the rite.

9



24. The rite for each plan is so described that it may be cele-

brated very simply. On the other hand, a generous selection of

texts is given for use according to circumstances. For example:

1) In general, all the texts are interchangeable and may be

chosen, with the help of the community or family, to reflect the

individual situation.

2) Some elements of the rite are not obligatory but may be

freely added, for example, the prayer for the mourners at the

home of the deceased.

3) In keeping with liturgical tradition, greater freedom of

choice is given in the case of texts for processions.

4) Whenever a psalm, indicated or preferred for liturgical rea-

sons, may offer some pastoral difficulty, another psalm is provided

for optional use. In addition, one or other psalm verse which

seems pastorally unsuitable may be omitted.

5) Since the text of the prayers is always given in the singular,

masculine form, the gender and number must be adapted.

6) In the prayers, the lines within parentheses may be omitted.

If an individual prayer or other text is clearly not appropriate

to the circumstances of the deceased person
,

it is the responsibil-

ity of the priest to make the necessary adaptation.

25. The celebration of the funeral liturgy with meaning and

dignity and the priest's ministry to the dead presuppose an in-

tegral understanding of the Christian mystery and the pastoral

office.

Among other things, the priest should:

1) Visit the sick and the dying, as indicated in the relevant

section of the Roman Ritual.

2) Teach the significance of Christian death.

3) Show loving concern for the family of the deceased per-

son, support them in the time of sorrow, and as much as possible

involve them in planning the funeral celebration and the choice

of the options made available in the rite.

4) Integrate the liturgy for the dead with the whole parish

liturgical life and the pastoral ministry.

10



NOTES

1
Cf. Simeon of Thessalonica, De ordine sepulturae: P.G. 155,

685 B.

2
II Vatican Council, Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy, Sacro-

sanctum Concilium

,

n. 24.

3
Cf. AAS 56 (1964) 822-823.

4
Cf. II Vatican Council, Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy,

Sacrosanctum Concilium
,
n. 32.

11



CHAPTER I

Vigil for the Deceased and Prayer When

the Body is Placed on the Bier

Introductory Note

This chapter includes two kinds of service of prayer which

may be followed at appropriate times during the period

from death to the funeral rite itself (which is given in Chap-

ter II). These are:

1) A wake service or vigil in the form of a celebration

of the word of God. This may take place in the home of the

deceased person
,
in a funeral parlor or chapel

,
or even in

the church. In the absence of a priest or deacon
,

it should

be led by a lay person.

An appropriate pattern or structure of such a vigil is sug-

gested in nos. 26-29 of this chapter
,
from the Ordo Exsequia-

rum. The choice of texts is left to the one who presides , in

consultation with the family of the deceased and others.

In addition
,
two examples of such services have been ap-

pended to this chapter. They are intended only as models

for structure and selection of texts in a celebration of the

word of God.

2) Prayer at other times before the funeral rite.

The second part of Chapter I (nos. 30-31) suggests appro-

priate psalms
,
readings

,
and prayers at various times when

the family
,
friends

,
and neighbors of the deceased or other

members of the community assemble at the coffin. Such

brief prayer may be suitable
,
according to local usage

,
when

the body has been prepared and placed in the coffin
,
when

the coffin is placed on the bier
,
when the family first comes

together for prayer at the coffin
,
when the coffin is closed

,

or—especially if the station in the home (Chapter II, nos.
32-36) is omitted—before the body is taken to the church.
It is appropriate that the priest make a selection of such

prayers available for use by the family of the deceased.

12



Vigil or Celebration of the Word for the Deceased

26. According to local custom , a vigil or celebration of God's

word may be held in the home of the deceased, under the leader-

ship of a priest or a lay person. In this case the station in the

home
,
mentioned below in nos. 32 and the following

,
may be

omitted.

27. This celebration may be arranged as follows: after an intro-

ductory explanation , a psalm and prayer may be said, as indicated

in nos. 33-34; these are followed by a reading from among those

listed in nos. 83-107, 128-144.

After the reading, the priest may give a homily.

The vigil concludes with the general intercessions and the

Lord's Prayer or with some other suitable prayer (see nos. 56,

167-169).

28. Other scripture readings may be used, especially those

which express and develop the Christian view of death. The

readings may be interspersed with songs, especially from the

psalms or from the Office of the Dead.

29. This vigil may also take place in the church at a suitable time

,

provided it is not held immediately before the funeral Mass lest

the funeral service be too burdensome and the liturgy of the word

duplicated.

Prayer when the Body is Placed on the Bier

30. When the body of the deceased is placed on the bier, the

following may be said:

Psalm 130 Out of the depths, with a response after each

verse, for example, I cry to you, O Lord, or My

soul hopes in the Lord (nos. 162-163).

or Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd, with the response Lord,

remember me in your kingdom (no. 145).

or Psalm 114; When Israel came forth from Egypt, with the re-

Psalm 115: sponse May Christ make you welcome in paradise

1-12 (no. 152).

[In the United States]

or Psalm 51 Have mercy on me, O God, in your goodness.

or Psalm 26 Do me Justice, O Lord!

13



Or another appropriate psalm with a responsorial verse
,
biblical

invocations
,
or a brief scripture reading:

Colossians 3:3-4

or Romans 6:8-9

or 2 Corinthians 4:14

[In the United States]

or Romans 14:7-9

or 1 Corinthians 15:51-57

or Luke 7:11-17

Or another appropriate reading.

Then [the Lord's prayer or] the following prayer is added:

Let us pray.

Lord,

welcome into your presence

your son (daughter) N., whom you have called from this life.

Release him (her) from all his (her) sins,

bless him (her) with eternal light and peace,

raise him (her) up to live for ever with all your saints

in the glory of the resurrection.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

Other prayers from nos. 167-169 may be substituted.

31. Wherever customary , when the body of the deceased is laid

out or other acts of piety are performed
,
a similar form of prayer

may be used.

14



APPENDIX

TEXTS FOR VIGIL SERVICES

This appendix to Chapter I gives two models or samples for

the celebration of a vigil or wake service in the form described

in the body of the chapter. In the absence of a priest or deacon ,

it is led by a lay person.

VIGIL SERVICE A

Greeting

A The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and

the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

People: And also with you.

Or:

B 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Praised be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father

of mercies, and the God of all consolation! He comforts us in all

our afflictions and thus enables us to comfort those who are in

trouble, with the same consolation we have received from him.

People: Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Psalm 23 The Lord
,
Shepherd and Host

Ant. Lord, remember me in your kingdom.

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not

want.

In verdant pastures he gives me re-

pose;

Beside restful waters he leads me;

he refreshes my soul.

He guides me in right paths

for his name's sake.

Even though I walk in the dark valley

I fear no evil; for you are at my side

With your rod and your staff

that give me courage.

15



II

You spread the table before me

in the sight of my foes;

You anoint my head with oil;

my cup overflows.

Only goodness and kindness follow me

all the days of my life;

And I shall dwell in the house of the

Lord

for years to come.

Prayer

For the deceased person

Almighty Father,

eternal God,

hear our prayers

for your son (daughter) N.

whom you have called from this life to yourself.

Grant him (her) light, happiness, and peace.

Let him (her) pass in safety through the gates of death,

and live for ever with all your saints

in the light you promised to Abraham

and to all his descendants in faith.

Guard him (her) from all harm

and on that great day of resurrection and reward

raise him (her) up with all your saints.

Pardon his (her) sins

and give him (her) eternal life in your kingdom.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

Psalm 121 The Lord Our Guardian

Ant. My help is from the Lord,

who made heaven and earth.

I lift up my eyes toward the mountains;

whence shall help come to me?

My help is from the Lord,

who made heaven and earth.

[
167

]

16



II

May he not suffer your foot to slip;

may he slumber not who guards you:

Indeed he neither slumbers nor sleeps,

the guardian of Israel.

III

The Lord is your guardian; the Lord is your shade;

he is beside you at your right hand.

The sun shall not harm you by day,

nor the moon by night.

IV

The Lord will guard you from all evil;

he will guard your life.

The Lord will guard your coming and your going,

both now and forever.

Reading John 16:20-22

I tell you truly:

you will weep and mourn

while the world rejoices;

you will grieve for a time,

but your grief will be turned to

joy.

When a woman is in labor

she is sad that her time has come.

When she has borne her child,

she no longer remembers her pain

for joy that a man has been born into

the world.

In the same way, you are sad for a

time,

but I shall see you again;

then your hearts will rejoice

with a joy no one can take from you.

Homily

General Intercessions [200]

God, the almighty Father, raised Christ his Son from the dead;

with confidence we ask him to save his people, living and dead.

17



Our brother (sister), N., was given the promise of eternal life in

baptism; Lord, give him (her) communion with your saints for ever.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

N. ate the bread of eternal life, the body of Christ; raise him

(her) up, Lord, at the last day.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

(for a priest) Our brother, N., was a priest on earth; welcome

him, Lord, into the sanctuary of heaven.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

We pray for our brothers and sisters, our relatives, for all who

were close to us and good to us; Lord, give them the reward of

their goodness.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who have died in the hope of rising again; wel-

come them, Lord, into the light of your presence.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who have gathered here to worship in faith;

Lord, make us one in your kingdom.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Then [ the Lord's prayer or] the following prayer is added:

For the deceased person and for the mourners [169]

Lord Jesus,

our Redeemer,*

you willingly gave yourself up to death

so that all people might be saved

and pass from death into a new life.

Listen to our prayers,

look with love on your people

who mourn and pray for their dead brother (sister).

Lord Jesus, you alone are holy and compassionate:

forgive our brother (sister) his (her) sins.

By dying you opened the gates of life

for those who believe in you:

do not let our brother (sister) be parted from you,

but by your glorious power

18



give him (her) light, joy, and peace in heaven

where you live for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

VIGIL SERVICE B

Greeting

A

The grace and peace of God our Father and the Lord

Jesus Christ be with you all.

People: And also with you.

Or:

B 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Praised be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father

of mercies, and the God of all consolation! He comforts us in all

our afflictions and thus enables us to comfort those who are in

trouble, with the same consolation we have received from him.

People: Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Psalm 116 Thanksgiving to God for Help in Need

Ant. I heard a voice from heaven saying:

Happy are those who die in the Lord.

I

I love the Lord because he has heard

my voice in supplication,

Because he has inclined his ear to me

the day I called.

The cords of death encompassed me;

The snares of the nether world seized upon me;

I fell into distress and sorrow,

And I called upon the name of the

Lord

"O Lord, save my life."

II

Gracious is the Lord and just;

yes, our God is merciful.

The Lord keeps the little ones;

i was brought low, and he saved me.

19



Return, O my soul, to your tranquility,
for the Lord has been good to you.

For he has freed my soul from death,

my eyes from tears, my feet from stumbling.

I shall walk before the Lord

in the lands of the living.

Prayer [168]

Father,

we entrust our brother (sister) to your mercy.

You loved him (her) greatly in this life:

now that he (she) is freed from all its cares,

give him (her) happiness and peace for ever.

The old order has passed away:

welcome him (her) now into paradise

where there will be no more sorrow,

no more weeping or pain,

but only peace and joy

with Jesus, your Son,

and the Holy Spirit

for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

Reading 7 Thessalonians 4:13-18

We would have you be clear about those who sleep in death,
brothers; otherwise you might yield to grief, like those who have

no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose, God will

bring forth with him from the dead those also who have fallen

asleep believing in him.

We say to you, as if the Lord himself had said it, that we who
live, who survive until his coming, will in no way have an ad-

vantage over those who have fallen asleep. No, the Lord himself

will come down from heaven at the word of command, at the

sound of the archangel's v'oice and God's trumpet; and those who

have died in Christ will rise first. Then we, the living, the sur-

vivors, will be caught up with them in the clouds to meet the Lord

in the air. Thenceforth we shall be with the Lord unceasingly.

Console one another with this message.

Psalm 42 Desire for God and His Temple

20



Ant. I will go to the glorious shrine of God, to the dwelling

place of my lord.

As the hind longs for the running waters,

so my soul longs for you, O God.

Athirst is my soul for God, the living God.

When shall I go and behold the face of God?

My tears are my food day and night,

as they say to me day after day,

"Where is your God?"

Those times I recall,

now that I pour out my soul within me,

When I went with the throng

and led them in procession to the house of God,

Amid loud cries of joy and thanksgiving,

with the multitude keeping festival.

Why are you so downcast, O my soul?

Why do you sigh within me?

Hope in God! For I shall again be thanking him,

in the presence of my saviour and my God.

Within me my soul is downcast;

so will I remember you

From the land of the Jordan and of Hermon,

from Mount Mizar.

Deep calls unto deep

in the roar of your cataracts;

All your breakers and your billows

pass over me.

By day the Lord bestows his grace,

and at night I have his song,

a prayer to my living God.

I sing to God, my rock:

"Why do you forget me?

Why must I go about in mourning,

with the enemy oppressing me?"

It crushes my bones that my foes mock me,

as they say to me day after day, "Where is your God?"

21



Why are you so downcast, O my soul?
Why do you sigh within me?

Hope in God! For I shall again be thanking him,

in the presence of my saviour and my God.

Reading Matthew 25:31-40

"When the Son of Man comes in his glory, escorted by all the

angels of heaven, he will sit upon his royal throne, and all the

nations will be assembled before him. Then he will separate them

into two groups, as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. The

sheep he will place on his right hand, the goats on his left. The

king will say to those on his right: 'Come. You have my Father's

blessing! Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the creation

of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was

thirsty and you gave me drink. I was a stranger and you welcomed

me, naked and you clothed me. I was ill and you comforted me,

in prison and you came to visit me.'

Then the just will ask him: 'Lord, when did we see you hungry

and feed you or see you thirsty and give you drink?

When did we welcome you away from home or clothe you in

your nakedness? When did we visit you when you were ill or in

prison?' The king will answer them: 'I assure you, as often as

you did it for one of my least brothers, you did it for me.'
"

Canticle of Zechariah Luke 1:68-79

"Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel

because he has visited and ransomed

his people.

He has raised a horn of saving strength

for us

in the house of David his servant,

As he promised through the mouths of

his holy ones,

the prophets of ancient times:

Salvation from our enemies

and from the hands of all our foes.

He has dealt mercifully with our fathers

and remembered the holy covenant

he made,

22



The oath he swore to Abraham our

father he would grant us:

that, rid of fear and delivered from

the enemy,

We would serve him devoutly and

through all our days

be holy in his sight.

And you, O child, shali be called

prophet of the Most High;

For you shall go before the Lord

to prepare straight paths for him,

Giving his people a knowledge of salvation

in freedom from their sins.

All this is the work of the kindness of

Our God;

he, the Dayspring, shall visit

us in his mercy

To shine on those who sit in darkness

and in the shadow of death,

to guide our feet into the way of peace."

General Intercessions [201]

My dear friends, we join in prayer for our deceased brother

(sister); let us pray also for the Church, for peace in the world,

and for ourselves.

We pray to the Father for the bishops and priests of the Church;

may he give them strength to be examples of what they preach.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray for all in public office; may they work for justice and true

peace.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray for all who suffer in mind or body; may they realize that

God is always with them.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray that God may free our brother (sister), N., from punish-

ment and darkness.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray that in his mercy God may forgive all his (her) sins.

23



R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray that God may give him (her) peace and light for ever.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray that God may give him (her) joy in the company of all

his saints.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray for our deceased relatives and for all who have done

good to us; may God welcome them into the radiant light of his

presence.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray for all who died in faith; may the Lord welcome them

into his presence.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

Then [ the Lord's prayer or] the following prayer is added:

Prayer [34]

Father,

God of all consolation,

in your unending love and mercy for us

you turn the darkness of death

into the dawn of new life.

Show compassion to your people in their sorrow.

(Be our refuge and our strength

to lift us from the darkness of this grief

to the peace and light of your presence.)

Your son, our Lord Jesus Christ,

by dying for us, conquered death

and by rising again, restored life.

May we then go forward eagerly to meet him,

and after our life on earth

be reunited with our brothers and sisters

where every tear will be wiped away.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

24



CHAPTER II

First Plan of the Funeral Rite with Stations

in the Home of the Deceased, in the

Church, and at the Cemetery

Introductory Note

Because this first plan or form of the funeral rite
,
with

the celebration of the funeral Mass in the church before the

burial
,

is usual in the United States
,
as far as possible op-

tional alternative texts have been reprinted at the proper

places. It is understood that the ritual processions (from the

home to the church and from the church to the cemetery)

do not ordinarily take place in this country ; the chants or

psalms appointed for these processions may thus be sung

according to circumstances
,
for example

,
if the entrance of

the congregation into the church or the recession after the

funeral Mass is prolonged.

The principal parts of the rite
,
called stations

,
are:

a) the service in the home of the deceased person , the

funeral parlor
,
a chapel or other place where the body of

the deceased has been placed during the period before the

funeral rite;

b) the eucharistic celebration in the church;

c) the rite of burial.

There are two major options in the complete funeral rite
,

which—like other elements of the preparations and plan-
ning—should be determined by the priest in consultation
with the family of the deceased and others (see Introduc-

tion, no. 23):

1) The first station in the home of the deceased person

or elsewhere is not customary in most parts of the United

25



States. It may
,
however

,
be celebrated under the leadership

of a lay person in the absence of a priest or deacon or it may

be replaced by a brief station or rite at the entrance of the

church or it may be entirely omitted.

It is usual in many parts of the United States for the priest

and ministers to meet the funeral procession at the church

entrance—instead of celebrating the first station in the home
of the deceased or elsewhere. This rite has therefore been

printed in full. Moreover
,
several optional symbolic rites

have been added
,
for use at the discretion of the priest and

in accord with local practice: sprinkling of the body with

holy water
,
covering the coffin with a white pall

,
carrying

of the Easter candle through the church.

2) After the funeral Mass , the rite of final commenda-

tion may take place in the church or may be postponed and

celebrated at the place of burial. Ordinarily this choice

should depend on the local practice:

a) if only a small number of the congregation at the

funeral Mass will participate in the third station at the place

of burial
,

it its preferable to celebrate the final commenda-

tion in the church immediately after Mass;

b) if almost all the members of the congregation will be

present at the place of burial, the final commendation may

be celebrated there rather than immediately after Mass.

Other options and alternatives are indicated in the course

of Chapter U, for example
,
the celebration of only the liturgy

of the word and the final commendation , when there can

be no eucharistic celebration.

If the deceased person has chosen that his body be cre-

mated
,
the funeral rite is not changed except as indicated in

the Introduction
,
no. 15.

For the funerals of children
,
the same order of the service

or sequence of rites is followed , but appropriate prayers

and other texts are chosen. See Chapters V, VII , VIII.

26



First Station: In the Home of the Deceased

32. The priest vests in an alb or surplice and a stole of the color

for funerals
,
with a cope of the same color if he wishes. He goes

to the home of the deceased with the ministers who carry the

cross and holy water. Local circumstances should be considered
,

especially if the station takes place in a hospital.

[It is desirable that
,
in the absence of a priest or deacon

,
a lay

person should lead the station in the home.]

33. Upon entering the house , the priest greets those present and

offers them his sympathy and the consolation of faith
,
using words

from the scriptures
,
for example:

Matthew 11:28

or Ecclesiasticus 2:6

or 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

If it is the custom
,
he sprinkles the body with holy water.

Then he may say:

Psalm 130 Out of the depths, with a response after each

verse
,
for example

,
I cry to you, O Lord or

My soul hopes in the Lord (nos. 162-163).

or Psalm 23 The Lord is my shepherd, with the response

Lord, remember me in your kingdom (no.

145).

or Psalm 114;

115:1-12

When Israel came forth from Egypt, with the

response May Christ make you welcome in

paradise (no. 152).

Or another appropriate psalm with responsorial verse or biblical

invocations.

After this he adds:

V. The Lord be with you.

R. And also with you.

Let us pray.

Lord,

hear our prayers and be merciful

to your son (daughter) N., whom you have called from this life.

27



Welcome him (her) into the company of your saints,

in the kingdom of light and peace.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

Other prayers may be chosen from nos. 167-169.

34. The following prayer for the mourners may be said after or

even before the above prayer for the deceased:

Let us pray.

Father,

God of all consolation,

in your unending love and mercy for us

you turn the darkness of death

into the dawn of new life.

Show compassion to your people in their sorrow.

(Be our refuge and our strength

to lift us from the darkness of this grief

to the peace and light of your presence.)

Your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,

by dying for us, conquered death

and by rising again, restored life.

May we then go forward eagerly to meet him,

and after our life on earth

be reunited with our brothers and sisters

where every tear will be wiped away.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

Another prayer may be chosen (no. 169).

Procession to the Church

35. If the body is taken to the church in a procession , this should

be arranged according to local custom. The procession is led by

a minister carrying a cross
,
and the priest walks in front of the bier.

The following may be sung during the procession:

Psalm 116 I love the Lord because he has heard my

voice, with the antiphon May the choir of

28



Psalm 51

angels welcome you and lead you to Abra-

ham's side. Where Lazarus is poor no

longer, may you have everlasting rest (no.
153)

.

or Ant. 1 heard a voice from heaven saying:

Happy are those who die in the Lord (no.

154)

.

Have mercy on me, O God, with the anti-

phon Give him (her) eternal rest, O Lord,

and may your light shine on him (her) for

ever (no. 148).

or Ant. Lord, may our brother (sister), whom

you have called to yourself, find happiness

in the glory of your saints (no. 149).

or Ant. The bones that were crushed shall

leap for joy before the Lord (no. 150).

Psalm 121 1 lift my eyes toward the mountains (no.

158).

Psalm 122

Psalm 123

Psalm 126

1 rejoiced because they said to me (no. 159).

To you 1 lift up my eyes (no. 160).

When the Lord brought back the captives of

Zion (no. 161).

Psalm 132

Psalm 134

Remember, O Lord, for David (no. 164).

Come, bless the Lord (no. 165).

Other appropriate songs or customary prayers may also be

used.

36. If the station in the home is not held
,
the priest goes to the

entrance of the church and there greets those present
,
offering

them his sympathy. If it is the custom
,
he sprinkles the body with

holy water and he may say one or more of the prayers given above

for the station in the home.

Second Station: In the Church

37. Ordinarily
,
for the entrance into the church

,
and for the be-

ginning of Mass
,
there should be only one song , according to the

29



norms in the General Instruction on the Order of Mass. If
,
how-

ever
,
a particular pastoral reason requires two chants

,
one of the

responsories in nos. 47 and 187-191 may be used.

[It is appropriate that the paschal candle be carried in the en-

trance procession .]

38. The custom of placing the body of the deceased in the posi-

tion which he occupied in the liturgical assembly may be con-

tinued
,
namely

,
the faithful facing the altar and sacred ministers

facing the people.

The gospel book
,
the Bible

,
or a cross may be placed on the

coffin. A second cross is not to be placed near the coffin if the

altar cross can be easily seen from the body of the church. Lighted

candles may be placed about the coffin or the paschal candle

alone may be placed at the head of the deceased.

Mass

Rite at the Entrance of the Church

In the United States
,
the priest accompanied by the min-

isters>, may begin the rite at the door of the church , using

one of the apostolic greetings of the Mass:

Greeting

A The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God

and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.

People: And also with you.

Or:

B The grace and peace of God our Father

and the Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

People: Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord

Jesus Christ.

Or: And also with you.

Or:

C The Lord be with you.

People: And also with you.

30



Or:

D 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Praised be God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the

Father of mercies, and the God of all consolation! He com-

forts us in all our afflictions and thus enables us to comfort

those who are in trouble, with the same consolation we have

received from him.

People: Blessed be God, the Father of our Lord

Jesus Christ.

The priest may then sprinkle the body with holy water

saying these or similar words:

I bless the body of N., with the holy water that recalls his

(her) baptism of which Saint Paul writes: All of us who were

baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death. By

baptism into his death we were buried together with him,

so that just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory

of the Father, we too might live a new life. For if we have

been united with him by likeness to his death, so shall we

be united with him by likeness to his resurrection.

A white pall
,
in remembrance of the baptismal garment ,

may then be placed on the coffin by the pallbearers or

others
,
and the priest may say these or similar words:

On the day of his (her) baptism, N. put on Christ. In the

day of Christ's coming, may he (she) be clothed with glory.

In the United States
,

if the introductory rites have taken

place at the church door
,
the priest venerates the altar and

goes to his chair. The penitential rite is omitted
,
and the

priest sings or says the opening prayer.

39. After the introductory rites , the liturgy of the word is cele-

brated. Three readings may be used
,
the first of them from the

Old Testament.

[It is desirable that the first and second readings be read by

relatives or friends of the deceased person.]

31



If a fuller rite is desired for the funeral Mass
,
the psalms in the

Roman Gradual or the Simple Gradual for the several parts of

Mass may be sung.

40. If the Simple Gradual is used
,
the alleluia may be omitted for

pastoral reasons.

41. A brief homily should be given after the gospel
,
but without

any kind of funeral eulogy.

[The homily may properly include an expression of praise and

gratitude to God for his gifts
,
particularly the gift of a Christian

life
,
to the deceased person. The homily should relate Christian

death to the paschal mystery of the Lord's victorious death and

resurrection and to the hope of eternal life.]

42. The general intercessions (prayer of the faithful) take place

after the homily.

43. Where it is customary
,
the procession of the faithful at the

preparation of the gifts may be retained in funeral Masses
,
pro-

vided it is kept within the limits of the offertory rite and its

eucharistic meaning is explained to the faithful.

[It is desirable that members of the family or friends of the

deceased person participate in the usual offering of the bread and

wine for the celebration of the eucharist, together with other gifts

for the needs of the Church and of the poor.]

In the United States
,

if incense is used
,
the priest

,
after incens-

ing the gifts and the altar
,
may incense the body. The deacon or

another minister then incenses the priest and people.

44. It is recommended that the faithful
,
especially the members

of the family
, take part in the eucharistic sacrifice offered for the

deceased
, by receiving holy communion.

In the United States
,
communion may be given under both

kinds
,
in accordance with the judgment of the Ordinary

,
to mem-

bers of the faithful present at the funeral Masses.

45.

If the liturgy of the word is celebrated without the eucharis-

tic sacrifice
,
the greeting and opening prayer are said after the

entrance song
,
unless for pastoral reasons brief introductory re-

marks seem more appropriate.

32



The liturgy of the word follows in the usual manner. Three

readings may be used, the first of them from the Old Testament.

A brief homily should be given after the gospel
,
but without any

kind of funeral eulogy. For pastoral reasons there may be only

one reading
,
followed by the homily.

After the homily the general intercessions (prayer of the faith-

ful) are said
,
and concluded either with a prayer by the priest or

the Lord's Prayer recited by all present.

Final Commendation and Farewell

[If Celebrated After Mass]

46. After the prayer after communion or
,

if the eucharistic sacri-

fice is not celebrated
,
after the liturgy of the word

,
the priest

,

vested in a chasuble or cope
,
begins the rite of final commenda-

tion and farewell*

The priest stands near the coffin with the ministers who have

the holy water and incense. [If the body was sprinkled with holy

water at the entrance to the church at the beginning of Mass
,
the

sprinkling is ordinarily omitted in the rite of commendation. If

the body was incensed at the preparation of the gifts during the

Mass
,
the incensation is ordinarily omitted in the rite of com-

mendation.] He faces the people and introduces the rite in these

or similar words:

With faith in Jesus Christ,

we reverently bring the body of our brother (sister)

to be buried in its human imperfection.

Let us pray with confidence to God,

who gives life to all things,

that he will raise up this mortal body

to the perfection and the company of the saints.

May God give him (her) a merciful judgment

and forgive all his (her) sins.

May Christ, the Good Shepherd,

lead him (her) safely home

to be at peace with God our Father.

And may he (she) be happy for ever

*See nos. 50 and 54.

33



with all the saints

in the presence of the eternal King.

Other introductions may be chosen (nos. 183-186).

Then all pray in silence for a little while.

According to local custom
,
the conference of bishops may per-

mit the relatives of the deceased to give some words of greeting

after the period of silent prayer.

47. The body is sprinkled with holy water and incensed
,
or this

may be done after the song of farewell.

V. Saints of God, come to his (her) aid!

Come to meet him (her) angels of the Lord!

R. Receive his (her) soul and present him (her) to God the Most

High.

V. May Christ, who called you, take you to himself;

may angels lead you to Abraham's side.

R. Receive his (her) soul and present him (her) to God the Most

High.

V. Give him (her) eternal rest, O Lord,
and may your light shine on him (her) for ever.

R. Receive his (her) soul and present him (her) to God the Most

High.

Another responsory may be chosen from nos. 187-191
,
or some

other song may be used. If no singing is possible
,

it is recom-

mended that prayers for the deceased be said by all present
,
for

example
, at least some invocations.

If neither a responsory nor the above mentioned prayers

or invocations are possible
,
one of the following may be

added:

A

Priest: Peace be with those who have left us and have

gone to God.

Deacon or another minister

:

May N. be at peace.

May he (she) be with God.

34



All: May he (she) be with the living God.

May he (she) be with the immortal God.

May he (she) be in God's hands.

Deacon: May he (she) sleep in peace.

All: May he (she) live in peace.

Deacon: May he (she) be where the name of God is great.

All: May he (she) be with the living God now and on

the day of judgment.

May he (she) live with God.

May he (she) live in eternal light.

Deacon: May he (she) live in the peace of the Lord.

All: May he (she) live for ever in peace.

With God in peace.

B

or: The deacon or another minister may lead the follow-

ing part of the litany. All respond: Lord, save your people,

to each invocation.

By your coming as man

By your birth

By your baptism and fasting

By your sufferings and cross

By your birth and burial

By your rising to new life

By your return in glory to the Father

By your gift of the Holy Spirit

By your coming again in glory

48. Then the priest says the prayer:

Father,

into your hands we commend our brother (sister).

We are confident that with all who have died in Christ
he (she) will be raised to life on the last day

and live with Christ for ever.

(We thank you for all the blessings

35



you gave him (her) in this life

to show your fatherly care for all of us

and the fellowship which is ours with the saints

in Jesus Christ.)

Lord, hear our prayer:

welcome our brother (sister) to paradise

and help us to comfort each other

with the assurance of our faith

(until we all meet in Christ

to be with you and with our brother (sister) for ever.)

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

An alternate prayer may be chosen (no. 192).

49. After the prayer, while the body is being taken away, the

antiphons in no. 50 may be sung.

50. If the priest and the congregation accompany the funeral to

the cemetery
,
the final commendation and farewell may be cele-

brated at the grave or tomb itself. In this case
,
after the prayer

after communion or
,

if the eucharistic liturgy is not celebrated
,

after the liturgy of the word
,
the body is taken away. Meanwhile

one or other of these antiphons may be used:

May the angels lead you into paradise;

may the martyrs come to welcome you

and take you to the holy city,

the new and eternal Jerusalem.

or:

May the choir of angels welcome you.

Where Lazarus is poor no longer,

may you have eternaj rest.

For another antiphon
,
see no. 766.

Psalms or other appropriate verses may be sung with these

antiphons.

51.

If the priest cannot accompany the funeral procession to the

cemetery
,
the prayers which follow may be said by lay persons ,

according to the circumstances and pastoral needs.

36



Procession to the Cemetery

52. During the procession to the cemetery
,
the following may

be sung:

Psalm 118 Gives thanks to the Lord, for he is good, with

the antiphon Open for me the gates of holi-

ness; I will go in and praise the Lord (no.

155).

Psalm 42

Psalm 93

Psalm 25

or parts of

Psalm 119

or Ant. This is the door of the Lord; the just

shall enter it (no. 156).

As the hind longs for the running waters,

with the antiphon I will go to the glorious

shrine of God, to the dwelling place of my

Lord (no. 147).

The Lord is king, with the antiphon Of

earth you formed me, with flesh you cov-

ered me; Lord, my Redeemer, raise me up

again at the last day (no. 151).

To you I lift up my soul, with the antiphon

Lord, see the depth of my misery and grief,

and forgive me all my sins (no. 146).

Happy are they whose way is blameless (no.

157).

A

Third Station: At the Grave or Tomb

[If the Final Commendation has been Celebrated After Mass]

[It is desirable that
,
in the absence of a priest or deacon , a lay

person should lead the station in the cemetery.]

53. If the grave or tomb has not been blessed
,

it is blessed be-

fore the body is placed in it:

Let us pray.

Lord Jesus Christ,

by the three days you lay in the tomb

you made holy the graves of all who believe in you;

37



and even though their bodies lie in the earth,

they trust that they, like you, will rise again.

Give our brother (sister) peaceful rest in this grave,

until that day when you,

the resurrection and the life,

will raise him (her) up in glory.

Then may he (she) see the light of your presence,

Lord Jesus,

in the kingdom where you live for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

Another prayer may be chosen from nos. 193-195.

After the prayer the priest
,
if it is the custom

,
sprinkles the body

and the grave or tomb with holy water and incenses them
,
unless

this is to be done during the rite of final commendation.

54. If the priest and congregation accompany the funeral to the

cemetery
,
the final commendation and farewell may be cele-

brated at the grave or tomb itself
, as described in nos. 46-48. In

this case the funeral rites are concluded with the rite of com-

mendation.

[See 8, Third Station at the Grave or Tomb , Final Commendation

and Farewell
, p. 47.]

55. Depending on local custom
,
the burial takes place imme-

diately or at the end of the rite. While the body is being placed in

the grave or tomb
,
or at another suitable moment

,
the priest

may say:

Since almighty God has called our brother (sister) N.

from this life to himself,

we commit his (her) body

to the earth from which it was made.

Christ was the first to rise from the dead,

and we know that he will raise up our mortal bodies

to be like his in glory.

We commend our brother (sister) to the Lord:
may the Lord receive him (her) into his peace

and raise up his (her) body on the last day.

38



/\ reading from scripture, and a responsorial psalm may

then be said, especially if there is some interval between the

station in the church and the burial. The reading and psalm

may be included in the rite of final commendation
,
for a

similar reason
,

if this takes place at the grave or tomb.

John 12:23-26

John 12:35-36

Psalm 62 Only in God is my soul at rest

Psalm 93 The Lord is king

56. Then the priest may say
,
in whole or in part

,
the following

prayer of the faithful
,
or a similar one:

Let us pray for our brother (sister)

to our Lord Jesus Christ,

who said:

"I am the resurrection and the life.

The man who believes in me will live

even if he dies,

and every living person

who puts his faith in me

will never suffer eternal death."

Lord, you wept at the death of Lazarus, your friend:

comfort us in our sorrow.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

You raised the dead to life:

give our brother (sister) eternal life.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

You promised paradise to the thief who repented:

bring our brother (sister) to the joys of heaven.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Our brother (sister) was washed clean in baptism

and anointed with the oil of salvation:

39



give him (her) fellowship with all your saints.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

He (she) was nourished with your body and blood:

grant him (her) a place at the table in your heavenly kingdom.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Comfort us in our sorrow at the death of our brother (sister):

let our faith be our consolation

and eternal life our hope.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Then all say the Lord's Prayer together
,
or the priest says the

following prayer

:

Lord,

listen to our prayers for our brother (sister).

As he (she) always desired to do your will,

so in your mercy forgive

whatever wrong he (she) may have done.

By his (her) Christian faith he (she) was united

with all your believing people.

Now, in love and mercy

give him (her) a place with your angels and saints.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

Another prayer may be chosen from nos. 196-199.

In the United States
,

if a prayer for those present is desired ,

either no. 34 or no. 169 (for the deceased and the mourners) may

be added:

V. Give him (her) eternal rest, O Lord,

R. and may your light shine on him (her) for ever.

57. At the end of the entire rite , an appropriate song may be

sung
,
according to local custom.

40



B

Third Station: At the Grave or Tomb

Final Commendation and Farewell

[54.] If the priest and congregation accompany the funeral to the

cemetery
,
the final commendation and farewell may be cele-

brated at the grave or tomb itself
,
as described in nos. 46-48. In

this case the funeral rites are concluded with the rite of com-

mendation.

[53.] If the grave or tomb has not been blessed, it is blessed be-

fore the body is placed in it:

Let us pray.

Lord Jesus Christ,

by the three days you lay in the tomb

you made holy the graves of all who believe in you;

and even though their bodies lie in the earth,

they trust that they, like you, will rise again.

Give our brother (sister) peaceful rest in this grave,

until that day when you,

the resurrection and the life,

will raise him (her) up in glory.

Then may he (she) see the light of your presence,

Lord Jesus,

in the kingdom where you live for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

Another prayer may be chosen from nos. 193-195.

Final Commendation and Farewell

[46.] The priest stands near the coffin with the ministers who

have the holy water and incense. He faces the people and intro-

duces the rite in these or similar words:

With faith in Jesus Christ,

we reverently bring the body of our brother (sister)

to be buried in its human imperfection.

41



Let us pray with confidence to God,

who gives life to all things,

that he will raise up this mortal body

to the perfection and the company of the saints.

May God give him (her) a merciful judgment

and forgive all his (her) sins.

May Christ, the Good Shepherd,

lead him (her) safely home

to be at peace with God our Father.

And may he (she) be happy for ever

with all the saints

in the presence of the eternal King.

Other introductions may be chosen (nos. 183-186).

Then all pray in silence for a little while.

According to local custom , the conference of bishops may per-

mit the relatives of the deceased to give some words of greeting

after the period of silent prayer.

A reading from scripture
,
and a responsorial psalm may

then be said, especially if there is some interval between the

station in the church and the burial.

John 12:23-26

John 12:35-36

Psalm 62 Only in God is my soul at rest

Psalm 93 The Lord is king

[47.] The body is sprinkled with holy water and incensed , or this

may be done after the song of farewell.

V. Saints of God, come to his (her) aid!

Come to meet him (her) angels of the Lord!

R. Receive his (her) soul and present him (her) to God the Most

High.

V. May Christ, who called you, take you to himself;

may angels lead you to Abraham's side.

R. Receive his (her) soul and present him (her) to God the Most

High.

42



V. Give him (her) eternal rest, O Lord,
and may your light shine on him (her) for ever.

R. Receive his (her) soul and present him (her) to God the Most

High.

Another responsory may be chosen from nos. 187-191

,

or some

other song may be used. If no singing is possible , it is recom-

mended that prayers for the deceased be said by all present
,
for

example
,
at least some invocations.

If neither a responsory nor the above mentioned prayers

or invocations are possible
,
one of the following may be

added:

A

Priest: Peace be with those who have left us and have

gone to God.

Deacon or another minister

:

May N. be at peace.

May he (she) be with God.

May he (she) be with the living God.

May he (she) be with the immortal God.

May he (she) be in God's hands.

May he (she) sleep in peace.

May he (she) live in peace.

May he (she) be where the name of God is great.

May he (she) be with the living God now and on

the day of judgment.

May he (she) live with God.

May he (she) live in eternal light.

May he (she) live in the peace of the Lord.

May he (she) live for ever in peace.

With God in peace.

B

or: The deacon or another minister may lead the follow-

ing part of the litany. All respond: Lord, save your people,

to each invocation.

By your coming as man

By your birth

All:

Deacon:

All:

Deacon:

All:

Deacon:

AIL-

43



By your baptism and fasting

By your sufferings and cross

By your birth and burial

By your rising to new life

By your return in glory to the Father

By your gift of the Holy Spirit

By your coming again in glory

[48.] Then the priest says the prayer:

Father,

into your hands we commend our brother (sister).

We are confident that with all who have died in Christ

he (she) will be raised to life on the last day

and live with Christ for ever.

(We thank you for all the blessings

you gave him (her) in this life

to show your fatherly care for all of us

and the fellowship which is ours with the saints

in Jesus Christ.)

Lord, hear our prayer:

welcome our brother (sister) to paradise

and help us to comfort each other

with the assurance of our faith

(until we all meet in Christ

to be with you and with our brother (sister) for ever.)

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

An alternate prayer may be chosen (no. 192).

In the United States , if a prayer for those present is desired,

either no. 34 or no. 169 (for the deceased and the mourners) may

be added.

V. Give him (her) eternal rest, O Lord,

R. and may your light shine on him (her) for ever.

[57.] At the end of the entire rite, an appropriate song may be

sung
,
according to local custom.

44



RECEPTION OF THE FUNERAL AT THE CHURCH WHEN
THE FUNERAL LITURGY DOES NOT TAKE PLACE AT ONCE

58. When the body of the deceased is brought to the church

some time before the funeral liturgy is to be celebrated
,
the rite

may be arranged as follows:

The priest receives the funeral procession at the church door

with the sprinkling of holy water and the prayer mentioned in

no. 33.

While the body is being carried into the church
,
one of the

responsories in nos. 187-191 may be sung.

After this John 14:1-6 (no. 143) or another passage indicated

below in nos. 83-107
,
128-144 is read.

After the reading a psalm taken from those mentioned above

in no. 35 is said
,
or the prayer of the faithful in a short form.

The entire rite is completed with the Lord's Prayer.

Then the body is placed in the chapel used for this purpose.

45



CHAPTER III

Second Plan of the Funeral Rite with

Stations in the Cemetery Chapel

and at the Grave or Tomb

59. This plan of the funeral rites does not provide for a Mass as

a part of the funeral. A Mass will be celebrated however
,
at some

suitable time
,
without the body present

,
either before or after the

funeral. The funeral Mass may be celebrated in the home of the

deceased
,

if the local Ordinary judges this to be appropriate in

particular circumstances.

FIRST STATION: IN THE CEMETERY CHAPEL

60. The priest vests in an alb or surplice and stole of the color

for funerals
,
with a cope of the same color if he wishes. He goes

with the ministers to the bier where the funeral party is waiting.

The priest greets those present and offers them his sympathy and

the consolation of faith.

61. Then one of the responsories in nos. 47 and 187-191 or an-

other appropriate song is sung.

Liturgy of the Word

62. After this John 14:1-6 (no. 143) or another reading from nos.

128-144 is read.

63. If circumstances suggest
,
an epistle or a reading from the

Old Testament
,
from nos. 83-107

,
may be read before the gospel.

In this case one of the psalms indicated above in no. 33 is said or

sung with its antiphon between the readings.

64. After the reading or readings
,
there should be a brief homily,

unless this takes place at the grave or tomb.

Final Commendation and Farewell

65. The rite of final commendation and farewell follows , as de-

scribed in nos. 46-48
,
unless it is to be celebrated at the grave or

tomb.

46



The priest stands near the coffin , with the ministers who have

the holy water and incense. He faces the people and introduces

the rite in these or similar words:

With faith in Jesus Christ,

we reverently bring the body of our brother (sister)

to be buried in its human imperfection.

Let us pray with confidence to God,

who gives life to all things,

that he will raise up this mortal body

to the perfection and the company of the saints.

May God give him (her) a merciful judgment

and forgive all his (her) sins.

May Christ, the Good Shepherd,

lead him (her) safely home

to be at peace with God our Father.

And may he (she) be happy for ever

with all the saints

in the presence of the eternal King.

Other introductions may be chosen (nos. 183-186).

Then he invites all present to pray in silence for a little while.

According to local custom
,
the conference of bishops may per-

mit the relatives of the deceased to give some words of greeting

after the period of silent prayer.

66. The body is sprinkled with holy water and incensed, or this

may be done after the song of farewell.

V. Saints of God, come to his (her) aid!

Come to meet him (her) angels of the Lord!

R. Receive his (her) soul and present him (her) to God the Most

High.

V. May Christ, who called you, take you to himself;

may angels lead you to Abraham's side.

R. Receive his (her) soul and present him (her) to God the Most

High.

V. Give him (her) eternal rest, O Lord,
and may your light shine on him (her) for ever.

R. Receive his (her) soul and present him (her) to God the Most

High.

47



Another responsory may be chosen from nos. 187-191
,
or some

other song may be used. If no singing is possible
,

it is recom-

mended that prayers for the deceased be said by all present
,
for

example
,
at least some invocations.

If neither a responsory nor the above mentioned prayers

or invocations are possible
,
one of the following may be

added:

Priest:

A

Peace be with those who have left us and have

gone to God.

Deacon or another minister: May N. be at peace.

All:

May he (she) be with God.

May he (she) be with the living God.

May he (she) be with the immortal God.

May he (she) be in God's hands.

Deacon: May he (she) sleep in peace.

Deacon: May he (she) live in peace.

Deacon: May he (she) be where the name of God is great.

AH: May he (she) be with the living God now and on

the day of judgment.

May he (she) live with God.

May he (she) live in eternal light.

All: May he (she) live in the peace of the Lord.

All: May he (she) live for ever in peace.

With God in peace.

B

or: The deacon or another minister may lead the follow-

ing part of the litany. All respond: Lord, save your people,

to each invocation.

By your coming as man

By your birth

By your baptism and fasting

48



By your sufferings and cross

By your birth and burial

By your rising to new life

By your return in glory to the Father

By your gift of the Holy Spirit

By your coming again in glory

67. Then the priest says the prayer:

Father,

into your hands we commend our brother (sister).

We are confident that with all who have died in Christ

he (she) will be raised to life on the last day

and live with Christ for ever.

(We thank you for all the blessings

you gave him (her) in this life

to show your fatherly care for all of us

and the fellowship which is ours with the saints

in Jesus Christ.)

Lord, hear our prayer:

welcome our brother (sister) to paradise

and help us to comfort each other

with the assurance of our faith

(until we all meet in Christ

to be with you and with our brother (sister) for ever.)

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

An alternate prayer may be chosen (no. 192).

68. If the rite of final commendation and farewell is to be cele-

brated at the grave or tomb
,
the priest may say the prayer of the

faithful (no. 75) at the end of the liturgy of the word.

69. After the prayer or the prayer of the faithful
,
and while the

body is being taken away
,
these antiphons may be sung:

May the angels lead you into paradise;

may the martyrs come to welcome you

and take you to the holy city,

the new and eternal Jerusalem.

49



or:

May the choir of angels welcome you.

Where Lazarus is poor no longer,

may you have eternal rest.

For another antiphon
,
see no. 766.

Psalms or other appropriate verses may be sung with these

antiphons.

Procession to the Grave or Tomb

70. During the procession to the grave or tomb
,
the following

may be sung:

Psalm 118 Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, with

the antiphon Open for me the gates of holi-

ness; I will go in and praise the Lord (no.

155).

Psalm 42

Psalm 93

Psalm 25

or parts of

Psalm 119

or Ant. This is the door of the Lord; the just

shall enter it (no. 156).

As the hind longs for the running waters,

with the antiphon I will go to the glorious

shrine of God, to the dwelling place of my

Lord (no. 147).

The Lord is king, with the antiphon Of

earth you formed me, with flesh you covered

me; Lord, my Redeemer, raise me up again

at the last day (no. 151).

To you I lift up my soul, O Lord, with

the antiphon Lord, see the depth of my

misery and grief, and forgive me all my sins

(no. 146).

Happy are they whose way is blameless (no.

157).

SECOND STATION: AT THE GRAVE OR TOMB

[It is desirable that in the absence of a priest or deacon

,

a lay

person should lead the station in the cemetery.]

50



71 . If the grave or tomb has not been blessed, it is blessed before

the body is placed in it:

Let us pray.

Lord Jesus Christ,

by the three days you lay in the tomb

you made holy the graves of all who believe in you;

and even though their bodies lie in the earth,

they trust that they, like you, will rise again.

Give our brother (sister) peaceful rest in this grave,

until that day when you,

the resurrection and the life,

will raise him (her) up in glory.

Then may he (she) see the light of your presence,

Lord Jesus,

in the kingdom where you live for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

Another prayer may be chosen from nos. 193-195.

After the prayer the priest
,
if it is the custom

,
sprinkles the body

and the grave or tomb with holy water and incenses them , unless

this is to be done during the rite of final commendation.

72. Depending on local custom , the burial takes place imme-

diately or at the end of the rite. While the body is being placed

in the grave or tomb
,
or at another suitable moment , the priest

may say:

Since almighty God has called our brother (sister) N.

from this life to himself,

we commit his (her) body

to the earth from which it was made.

Christ was the first to rise from the dead,

and we know that he will raise up our mortal bodies

to be like his in glory.

We commend our brother (sister) to the Lord:

may the Lord receive him (her) into his peace

and raise up his (her) body on the last day.

51



/\ reading from scripture
,
and a responsorial psalm may

then be said
,
especially if there is some interval between the

station in the church and the burial. The reading and psalm

may be included in the rite of final commendation
,
for a

similar reason
,

if this takes place at the grave or tomb.

John 12:23-26

John 12:35-36

Psalm 62 Only in God is my soul at rest

Psalm 93 The Lord is king

73. If there is to be a homily at the grave or tomb
,

it is given at

this point.

74. If the final commendation and farewell is also celebrated at

the grave
,

it takes the place of the following prayer of the faithful
,

no. 75. In this case the funeral rites are concluded with the rite

of commendation
, nos. 65-67.

75.

Then the priest may say
,
in whole or in part

,
the following

prayer of the faithful
,
or a similar one:

Let us pray for our brother (sister)

to our Lord Jesus Christ,

who said:

'I am the resurrection and the life.

The man who believes in me will live

even if he dies,

and every living person

who puts his faith in me

will never suffer eternal death."

Lord, you wept at the death of Lazarus, your friend:

comfort us in our sorrow.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

52



You raised the dead to life:

give our brother (sister) eternal life.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

You promised paradise to the thief who repented:

bring our brother (sister) to the joys of heaven.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Our brother (sister) was washed clean in baptism

and anointed with the oil of salvation:

give him (her) fellowship with all your saints.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

He (she) was nourished with your body and blood:

grant him (her) a place at the table in your heavenly kingdom.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Comfort us in our sorrow at the death of our brother (sister):

let our faith be our consolation

and eternal life our hope.

We ask this in faith:

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Then all say the Lord's Prayer together
,
or the priest says the

following prayer:

Lord,

listen to our prayers for our brother (sister).

As he (she) always desired to do your will,

so in your mercy forgive

whatever wrong he (she) may have done.

By his (her) Christian faith he (she) was united

with all your believing people.

Now, in love and mercy

give him (her) a place with your angels and saints.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

53



Another prayer may be chosen from nos. 796-799.

In the United States , if a prayer for those present is desired,

either no. 34 or no. 769 (for the deceased and the mourners) may

be added:

V. Give him (her) eternal rest, O Lord,

R. and may your light shine on him (her) for ever.

76. At the end of the entire rite, an appropriate song may be

sung, according to local custom.

54



CHAPTER IV

Third Plan of the Funeral Rite Celebrated

in the Home of the Deceased

77. Depending on local custom , when the body of the deceased

is laid out, when it is placed on the bier, or whenever other acts

of piety are celebrated between the time of death and the prin-

cipal funeral service, the prayers , readings , and songs may be used

as indicated in no. 30 or in a similar manner , with texts taken from

Chapter VI.

78. The liturgy of the word in the form of a vigil may be held in

the home of the deceased, as mentioned above in nos. 26-28.

The several aspects of the meaning of Christian death, mentioned

in nos. 1 and 2, should be clearly expressed.

For pastoral reasons the local Ordinary may permit the funeral

Mass to be celebrated in the home of the deceased.

79. The rite of final commendation and farewell is celebrated

according to the first plan, nos. 46-48.

55



CHAPTER V

Funerals of Children

80. The funeral rites for baptized children who die before the

age of reason are arranged according to the different plans of

funerals described in Chapters U, III, and IV. The special texts

given below in nos. 203-230 are to be used.

81. The liturgical color should be festive and with a paschal

significance.

82. If a child whom the parents wished to be baptized should

die before baptism, the local Ordinary
,
taking into consideration

pastoral circumstances, may permit the funeral to be celebrated

either in the home of the child (see above, Chapter IV) or even

according to the plan of funeral rites customarily used for other

funerals in the region (see above, Chapters II and III). In either

case, the special texts given below in nos. 231-237 are to be used.

When funerals of this kind are celebrated, the doctrine of the

necessity of baptism should not be weakened in the catechesis

of the faithful.

56



CHAPTER VI

Various Texts Used in the Order of

Funerals for Adults

I. SCRIPTURE READINGS

Old Testament Reading

83. lob 19:1, 23-27 1 know that my redeemer lives.

84. Wisdom 3:1-9 (longer)

or 1-6, 9 (shorter)

He accepted them as a holocaust.

85. Wisdom 4:7-14 A blameless life is a ripe old age.

86. Isaiah 25:6, 7-9 The Lord God will destroy death

for ever.

87. Lamentations 3:17-26 It is good to wait in silence for the

Lord God to save.

The Hebrew letters are omitted.

88. Daniel 12:1-3 Of those who lie sleeping in the

dust of the earth many will

awake.

89. 2 Maccabees 12:43-46 It is good and holy to think of the

dead rising again.

New Testament Reading

90. Acts 10:34-43 (longer) God has appointed Jesus to judge

or 34-36
,
42-43 (shorter) everyone, alive and dead.

91. Romans 5:5-11 Having been justified by his blood,

we will be saved from God's

anger through him.

92. Romans 5:17-21 However great the number of sins

committed, grace was even

greater.

57



93. Romans 6:3-9 (longer)

or 3-4
,
8-9 (shorter)

Let us walk in newness of life.

94. Romans 8:14-23 We wait for our bodies to be set
free.

95. Romans 8:31-35, 37-39 Nothing can really come between

us and the love of Christ.

96. Romans 14:7-9 , 10-12 Alive or dead, we belong to the

Lord.

97. 1 Corinthians 15:20-24
,

All men will be brought to life in

25-28 (longer),

20-23 (shorter)

Christ.

98. 1 Corinthians 15:51-57 Death is swallowed up in victory.

99. 2 Corinthians 5:1, 6-10 We have an everlasting home in
heaven.

100. Philippians 3:20-21 Jesus will transfigure these

wretched bodies of ours to be

like his glorious body.

101. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 We shall stay with the Lord for

ever.

102. 2 Timothy 2:8-13 If we have died with him, then we

shall live with him.

103. 1 John 3:1-2 We shall see him as he really is.

104. 1 John 3:14-16 We have passed out of death and

into life because we love the

brothers.

105. Revelation 14:13 Happy are those who die in the

Lord.

106. Revelation 20:11-21 :1 The dead have been judged ac-

cording to their works.

107. Revelation 21 :1-5, 6-7 There will be no more death.

Responsorial Psalm

108. Psalm 23:1-3, 3-4, 5, 6

R. (1): The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall

want.

58



or: (4): Though I walk in the valley of darkness, I fear no evil,

for you are with me.

109. Psalm 25:6-7, 17-18 , 20-21

R. (1): To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.

or: (3): No one who waits for you, O Lord, will ever be put
to shame.

110. Psalm 27:1 , 4, 7, 8, 9, 13-14

R. (1): The Lord is my light and my salvation.

or: (13): I believe that I shall see the good things of the Lord

in the land of the living.

111. Psalm 42 :2, 3, 5; 43 :3, 4, 5

R. (Ps. 42:3): My soul is thirsting for the living God:

when shall I see him face to face?

1 1 2. Psalm 63 :2-3, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9

R. (2): My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God.

113. Psalm 103:8, 10, 13-14, 15-16, 17-18

R. (8): The Lord is kind and merciful.

or: (Psalm 37:39): The salvation of the just comes from the

Lord.

114. Psalm 115:5, 6; Psalm 116:10-11, 15-16

R. (Psalm 115:9): I will walk in the presence of the Lord,

in the land of the living.

or: Alleluia.

115. Psalm 122:1-2, 3-4, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9

R. (1): I rejoiced when I heard them say: let us go to the

house of the Lord.

or: Let us go rejoicing to the house of the Lord.

116. Psalm 130:1-2, 3-4, 4-6, 7-8

R. (1): Out of the depths, I cry to you, Lord.

or: (see 5): I hope in the Lord, I trust in his word.

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117. Psalm 143:1-2

,

5-6, 7, 8, 10

R. (1): O Lord, hear my prayer.

Alleluia Verse and Verse Before the Gospel

118. Matthew 11:25

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth;

you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the

kingdom.

119. Matthew 25:34

Come, you whom my Father has blessed, says the Lord;

inherit the kingdom prepared for you since the foundation

of the world.

120. John 3:16

God loved the world so much, he gave us his only Son,

that all who believe in him might have eternal life.

121. John 6:39

This is the will of my Father, says the Lord,

that I should lose nothing of all that he has given to me,

and that I should raise it up on the last day.

122. John 6:40

This is the will of my Father, says the Lord,

all who believe in the Son will have eternal life

and I will raise them to life again on the last day.

123. John 11:25, 26

I am the resurrection and the life, said the Lord:

he who believes in me will not die for ever.

124. Philippians 3:20

Our true home is in heaven,

and Jesus Christ whose return we long for

will come from heaven to save us.

125. 2 Timothy 2:11-12

If we die with Christ, we shall live with him,

and if we are faithful to the end, we shall reign with him.

126. Revelation 1:5-6

Jesus Christ is the firstborn of the dead;

glory and kingship be his for ever and ever. Amen.

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127. Revelation 14:13

Happy are those who have died in the Lord;

let them rest from their labors for their good deeds go with

them.

Gospel

128. Matthew 5:1-12

Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.

129. Matthew 11:25-30

You have hidden these things from the learned and have

revealed them to children.

130. Matthew 25:1-13

Look, the bridegroom is coming; go out and meet him.

131. Matthew 25:31-46

Come, you whom my Father has blessed.

132. Mark 15:33-39; 16:1-6 (longer) or 15:33-39 (shorter)

Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last.

133. Luke 7:11-17

Young man, I say to you, get up.

134. Luke 12:35-40

Be like men waiting for the arrival of their master.

135. Luke 23:33
,
39-43

Today you will be with me in paradise.

136. Luke 23:44-49
,
24:1-6 (longer) or 23:44-49 (shorter)

Father, into your hands I commit my spirit.

137. Luke 24:13-35 (longer) or 13-16, 28-35 (shorter)

Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer and so

enter into his glory?

138. John 6:37-40

Whoever believes in Jesus has eternal life and I will raise

him up on the last day.

139. John 6:51-58

Anyone who eats this bread will live for ever; and I will

raise him up on the last day.

140. John 11:17-27 (longer) or 21-27 (shorter)

I am the resurrection and the life.

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141. John 11:32-45

Lazarus, come out.

142. John 12:23-28 (longer) or 23-26 (shorter)

If a grain of wheat falls on the ground and dies, it yields

a rich harvest.

143. John 14:1-6

There are many rooms in my Father's house.

144. John 17:24-26

Father, I want those you have given me to be with me

where I am.

II. PSALMS AND ANTIPHONS

For convenience the psalms mentioned in this rite
,
together

with antiphons
,
are indicated here.

145. Psalm 23 Resp. Ps

146. Psalm 25 Ant.:

[In the United States]

Psalm 26 Ant.:

147. Psalm 42 Ant.:

148. Psalm 51 Ant.:

149. Psalm 51 Ant.:

150. Psalm 51 Ant.:

[In the United States]

Psalm 62 Ant.:

Lord, remember me in your king-

dom.

Lord, see the depth of my misery

and grief, and forgive me all my

sins!

Redeem me, and have pity on me.

I will go to the glorious shrine of

God, to the dwelling place of

my Lord.

Give him (her) eternal rest, O

Lord, and may your light shine

on him (her) for ever.

Lord, may our brother (sister),

whom you have called to your-

self, find happiness in the glory

of your saints.

The bones that were crushed shall

leap for joy before the Lord.

Only in God is my soul at rest;

from him comes my hope.

62



151. Psalm 93 Ant.: Of earth you formed me, with

flesh you covered me; Lord, my

Redeemer, raise me up again at

the last day.

152. Psalm 114 Resp. Ps.: May Christ make you welcome in

Psalm 11 5:

1-12

paradise.

153. Psalm 116 Ant.: May the choir of angels welcome

you and lead you to Abraham's

side. Where Lazarus is poor no

longer, may you have everlast-

ing rest.

154. Psalm 116 Ant.: 1 heard a voice from heaven say-

ing: Happy are those who die

in the Lord.

155. Psalm 118 Ant.: Open for me the gates of holi-

ness; 1 will go in and praise the

Lord!

156. Psalm 118 Ant.: This is the door of the Lord; the

just shall enter it.

157. Psalm 119

158. Psalm 121

159. Psalm 122

160. Psalm 123

161. Psalm 126

162. Psalm 130 Resp. Ps.: 1 cry to you, O Lord.

163. Psalm 130 or: My soul hopes in the Lord.

164. Psalm 132

165. Psalm 134

166. The following antiphon may be used while the body of the

deceased is being carried from the church.

I am the resurrection and the life.

The man who believes in me will live

even if he dies,

and every living person

who puts his faith in me

will never suffer eternal death.

63



III. PRAYERS FOR THE STATION IN THE HOME

OF THE DECEASED

Even if it is indicated for a particular part of the funeral service
,

any of the following prayers may be used at other parts of the rite
,

provided the character of the text is taken into account.

1

167. For the deceased person

Almighty Father,

eternal God,

hear our prayers

for your son (daughter) N.

whom you have called from this life to yourself.

Grant him (her) light, happiness, and peace.

Let him (her) pass in safety through the gates of death,

and live for ever with all your saints

in the light you promised to Abraham

and to all his descendants in faith.

Guard him (her) from all harm

and on that great day of resurrection and reward

raise him (her) up with all your saints.

Pardon his (her) sins

and give him (her) eternal life in your kingdom.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

2

168. For the deceased person

Father,

we entrust our brother (sister) to your mercy.

You loved him (her) greatly in this life:

now that he (she) is freed from all its cares,

give him (her) happiness and peace for ever.

The old order has passed away:

welcome him (her) now into paradise

where there will be no more sorrow,

no more weeping or pain,

but only peace and joy

64



with Jesus, your Son,

and the Holy Spirit

for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

3

169. For the deceased person and for the mourners

Lord Jesus,

our Redeemer,

you willingly gave yourself up to death

so that all people might be saved

and pass from death into a new life.

Listen to our prayers,

look with love on your people

who mourn and pray for their dead brother (sister).

Lord Jesus, you alone are holy and compassionate:

forgive our brother (sister) his (her) sins.

By dying you opened the gates of life

for those who believe in you:

do not let our brother (sister) be parted from you,

but by your glorious power

give him (her) light, joy, and peace in heaven

where you live for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

IV. PRAYERS FOR THE LITURGY OF THE WORD

In addition to these prayers
,
any prayer from the Mass for the

dead may be chosen.

The texts are ordinarily written to refer to a single deceased

person and should be changed when used for several persons.

1

170. Lord God,

almighty Father,

our faith testifies that your Son

died for us and rose to life again.

65



May our brother (sister) N. share in this mystery:

as he (she) has gone to his (her) rest believing in Jesus,

may he (she) come through him to the joy of the resurrec-

tion.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

2

171. Lord God,

you are the glory of believers

and the life of the just.

Your Son redeemed us

by dying and rising to life again.

Since our brother (sister) N. believed in the mystery

of our own resurrection,

let him (her) share the joys and blessings

of the life to come.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

3

172. Lord God, almighty Father,

you have made the cross for us a sign of strength

and marked us as yours in the sacrament of the resurrection.

Now that you have freed our brother (sister) from this

mortal life,

make him (her) one with your saints in heaven.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

4

173. Lord, hear our prayers.

By raising your Son from the dead, you have given us faith.

Strengthen our hope that N., our brother (sister),

will share in his resurrection.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

66



5

174. In your presence, Lord, those who die still live,

and our bodies do not perish in death,

but are transformed by your power.

Listen to our prayers

and welcome your son (daughter) N.

to the company of Abraham, our father in faith,

and raise him (her) up on the last day,

the day of judgment.

In your love cleanse him (her)

from every sin he (she) has committed

during his (her) life on earth.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

6

175. Lord, we ask your mercy for your son (daughter) N.

Welcome him (her) into your love

and forgive whatever wrong he (she) may have done

during his (her) life on earth.

Free him (her) from the chains of death

and let him (her) enter into life.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

7

176. Help us, Lord, to receive and understand your gospel,

so that we may find light in this darkness,

faith in our doubts,

and comfort for one another in your saving words.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

8

177. For a young person

Lord God, the days allotted to each of us

are in your fatherly care.

67



Though we are saddened

that our brother (sister) N. was with us for so short a time,

we entrust him (her) to you with confidence.

May he (she) live, radiant and for ever young

in the happiness of your kingdom.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

9

178. For one who worked in the service of the Gospel

Lord, hear our prayers for your son (daughter) N.,

who labored so generously

to bring your Gospel to the world.

May he (she) be the more worthy to share the rewards

of your kingdom.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

10

179. For one who suffered a long illness

Lord God, in his (her) suffering and long illness

our brother (sister) N. served you faithfully

by imitating the patience of your Son, Jesus Christ.

May he (she) also share in the reward of his glory

for ever and ever.

R. Amen.

11

180. For one who died suddenly

Lord, as we mourn the sudden death of our brother (sister) N.,

comfort us with the great power of your love

and strengthen us in our faith

that he (she) is with you for ever.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

68



12
181.

For parents

God, you command us to honor father and mother;

in your mercy forgive the sins of my (our) parents

and let me (us) one day see them again

in the radiance of eternal joy.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

13

182. For a married couple

Lord, pardon the sins of your servants N. and N.

In this life they were joined in true married love.

Now let the fullness of your own love

unite them for life eternal.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

V. INTRODUCTION TO THE FINAL COMMENDATION

AND FAREWELL

1

183. Our brother (sister) has gone to his (her) rest in the peace

of Christ. With faith and hope in eternal life, let us commend him

(her) to the loving mercy of our Father, and assist him (her) with

our prayers. He (she) became God's son (daughter) through bap-

tism and was often fed at the table of our Lord. May the Lord now

welcome him (her) to the table of God's children in heaven, and,

with all the saints, may he (she) inherit the promise of eternal life.

Let us also pray to the Lord for ourselves. May we who mourn be

reunited one day with our brother (sister). Together may we meet

Christ Jesus when he, who is our life, shall appear in his glory.

2

184. Since almighty God has called our brother (sister) N. from

this life to himself, we commit his (her) body to the earth from

which it was made.

69



Christ was the first to rise from the dead, and we know that he

will raise up our mortal bodies to be like his in glory.

We commend our brother (sister) to the Lord: may the Lord re-
ceive him (her) into his peace and raise up his (her) body on the

last day.

3

185. Before we part, let us take leave of our brother (sister). May

this last farewell express the depth of our love for him (her), ease

our sadness, and strengthen our hope. We know that one day we
shall greet him (her) with joy where the love of Christ, which over-

comes all things, will destroy even death itself.

4

186. Our prayers now are ended, and we bid our last farewell.

There is sadness in the parting, but it should fill us with new hope,

for one day we shall see our brother (sister) again and enjoy his

(her) love. By God's mercy, we who leave this church today in

sorrow will be reunited in the joy of God's kingdom. Let us com-

fort one another in the faith of Jesus Christ.

VI. RESPONSORIES FOR THE FINAL COMMENDATION

AND FAREWELL

1

187. Lord, you shed your blood for our brother (sister); welcome

him (her) into your presence; * do not forget, Lord, that we are

dust, and man is like grass, like a flower of the field.

V. The Lord is merciful and kind, patient and rich in mercy; * do

not forget, Lord, that we are dust, and man is like grass, like a

flower of the field.

2

188.

You knew me, Lord, before I was born, for you made me

in your likeness; * now I return you my soul, for you are my

maker.

V. My sins, Lord, make me afraid, and bring me shame; do not

condemn me when you come in judgment; * now I return you my

soul, for you are my maker.

70



3
189.

I know that my Redeemer lives, and on the last day I shall

rise again; * in my body I shall look on God, my Savior.

V. I myself shall see him; my own eyes will gaze on him; * in my

body I shall look on God, my Savior.

V. This is the hope I cherish in my heart; * in my body I shall

look on God, my Savior.

4

190.

Lord, you raised Lazarus from the dead; * forgive our

brother (sister), and give him (her) a resting-place in peace.

V. Give him (her) eternal rest, O Lord, and may your light shine
on him (her) for ever; * forgive our brother (sister), and give him

(her) a resting-place in peace.

5

191.

Lord, lead me out of the ways of darkness; you broke down

the gates of death, and visited the prisoners of darkness; * you

brought them light to let them see your face.

V. They cried out in welcome: "Redeemer, you have come at

last!" * you brought them light to let them see your face.

V. Give him (her) eternal rest, O Lord, and may your light shine
on him (her) for ever; * you brought them light to let them see

your face.

VII. ANOTHER PRAYER AT END OF FINAL COMMENDATION

AND FAREWELL

192.

We commend our brother (sister) N. to you, Lord.

Now that he (she) has passed from this life,

may he (she) live on in your presence.

In your mercy and love,

forgive whatever sins he (she) may have committed

through human weakness.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

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VIII. PRAYERS FOR THE BLESSING OF THE GRAVE OR TOMB

1

193. Lord God, through your mercy

those who have lived in faith

find eternal peace.

Bless this grave

and send your angel to watch over it.

Forgive the sins of our brother (sister)

whose body we bury here.

Welcome him (her) into your presence,

and with your saints let him (her) rejoice in you for ever.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

2

194. Lord God, we give you thanks and praise

for you created the earth and the heavens

and set the stars in their places.

When mankind was caught in the snare of death

you set us free through baptism.

In fulfillment of your will

our Lord jesus Christ

conquered death and rose to life

to bring salvation and resurrection to those who belong to

him by faith.

We ask you, Lord, to bless this grave.
Give our brother (sister) peace and rest,

and on the day of judgment

raise him (her) up to eternal life

with all your saints.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

3

195. Lord God,

when we were justly condemned for our sins

you taught us repentance

so that we might rise again to life.

72



You gave Abraham, our father in faith,

a burial place in the promised land.

You inspired Joseph of Arimathea

to bury Jesus in the tomb he had made for himself.

With sorrow for our sins,

we earnestly ask you to bless this grave

prepared for the burial of our brother (sister).

We commit his (her) body to the earth,
and ask you to welcome him (her) to the joys of paradise.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

IX. CONCLUDING PRAYERS AT THE CEMETERY

1

196. Lord God, you always listen to sincere prayers.

We have celebrated the funeral rite of our brother (sister)

and now we ask you to grant him (her) a share in that

blessed reward

which you have prepared for all the saints.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

2

197. Lord God, giver of life and resurrection,

you desire that sinful men should turn to you in prayer.

Accept the prayers

which in our sorrow we offer for your son (daughter) N.

Save him (her) from eternal death,

and welcome him (her) to the joys of your saints in paradise.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

3

198. God, your days are without end,

your mercies beyond counting.

Help us always to remember

that life is short

73



and the day of our death is known to you alone.

May your Holy Spirit lead us

to live in holiness and justice all our days.

Then, after serving you in the fellowship of your Church,

with strong faith, consoling hope, and perfect love for all,

may we joyfully come to your kingdom.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

4

199. Almighty God,

through the death of your Son on the cross,

you have overcome death for us.

Through his burial and resurrection from the dead

you have made the grave a holy place

and restored to us eternal life.

We pray for those who died believing in Jesus
and are buried with him in the hope of rising again.

God of the living and the dead,

may those who faithfully believed in you on earth

praise you for ever in the joy of heaven.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

X. OTHER FORMS OF THE PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL

1

200. For use at Mass or a liturgy of the word

God, the almighty Father, raised Christ his Son from the dead;

with confidence we ask him to save his people, living and dead.

Our brother (sister), N., was given the promise of eternal life in

baptism; Lord, give him (her) communion with your saints for

ever.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

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N. ate the bread of eternal life, the body of Christ; raise him (her)

up, Lord, at the last day.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

(for a priest) Our brother, N., was a priest on earth; welcome

him, Lord, into the sanctuary of heaven.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

We pray for our brothers and sisters, our relatives, for all who

were close to us and good to us; Lord, give them the reward of

their goodness.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who have died in the hope of rising again; wel-

come them, Lord, into the light of your presence.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

We pray for all who have gathered here to worship in faith; Lord,
make us one in your kingdom.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Prayer

Lord,

hear our prayers for our dead brothers and sisters;

forgive them their sins,

and bring them to the fullness of your salvation.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

2

201. For use at Mass or a liturgy of the word

My dear friends, we join in prayer for our deceased brother

(sister); let us pray also for the Church, for peace in the world,

and for ourselves.

We pray to the Father for the bishops and priests of the Church;

may he give them strength to be examples of what they preach.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

75



We pray for all in public office; may they work for justice and true

peace.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray for all who suffer in mind or body; may they realize that

God is always with them.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray that God may free our brother (sister), N., from punish-

ment and darkness.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray that in his mercy God may forgive all his (her) sins.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray that God may give him (her) peace and light for ever.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray that God may give him (her) joy in the company of all
his saints.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray for our deceased relatives and for all who have done
good to us; may God welcome them into the radiant light of his

presence.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

We pray for all who died in faith; may the Lord welcome them

into his presence.

R. Hear us, Lord, and have mercy.

Prayer

Lord God, Creator and Redeemer,

release our departed brothers and sisters from all punishment;

in answer to our prayers,

give them the pardon they have always desired.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

3

202. For use at the grave or tomb

Dear friends, God is the Father of mercies. Let us pray to him for

our brothers and sisters who have died in Christ.

76



In your goodness, forgive them their sins.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Remember their good works done in faith.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Welcome them into eternal life.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Let us pray also for those who mourn our brother's (sister's) death;

comfort them in their sorrow.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Fill the emptiness in their hearts with the presence of your love.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Increase their faith and strengthen their hope.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Let us pray also for ourselves in our pilgrimage through life;

strengthen us and keep us faithful in your service.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Fill our hearts with the hope for heaven.

R. Lord, hear our prayer.

Prayer

Almighty, ever-living God,

you watch over the living and the dead

and are merciful to all who are marked as your children

by their faith and good works.

We pray for our friends, living and dead;
in your goodness

grant them pardon for their sins

through the prayers of all your saints.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

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CHAPTER VII

Various Texts for Funerals of

Baptized Children

I. SCRIPTURE READINGS

Old Testament Reading

203. Isaiah 25:6, 7-9 The Lord God will destroy death

for ever.

204. Lamentations 3:17-26 It is good to wait in silence for the

Lord God to save.

New Testament Reading

205. Romans 6:3-4
,
8-9 We believe that we shall return to

life with Christ.

206. Romans 14:7-9 Alive or dead we belong to the

Lord.

207. 1 Corinthians 15:20-23 All men will be brought to life in

Christ.

208. Ephesians 1:3-5 The Father chose us in Christ, be-

fore the creation of the world

to be holy.

209. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14, We shall stay with the Lord for

18 ever.

210. Revelation 7:9-10, 15-17 God will wipe away all tears from

their eyes.

211. Revelation 21:1, 3-5 There will be no more death.

Responsorial Psalm

212. Psalm 23:1-3, 3-4, 5, 6

R. (1): The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall

want.

213. Psalm 25:4-5
,
6 and 7, 20-21

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214 .

R. (1): To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.

Psalm 42:2
, 3, 5; Psalm 43:3 , 4, 5

R. (Psalm 42:3): My soul is thirsting for the living God:

when shall I see him face to face?

215. Psalm 148:1-2 , 11-14

R. (12): Let all praise the name of the Lord.

or: Alleluia.

Alleluia Verse and Verse Before the Gospel

216. Matthew 11:25

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth;

you have revealed to little ones the mysteries of the

kingdom.

217. John 6:39

This is the will of my Father, says the Lord,

that I should lose nothing of all that he has given to me,

and that I should raise it up on the last day.

218. 2 Corinthians 1 :3-4

Blessed be the Father of mercies and the God of all

comfort, who consoles us in all our afflictions.

Gospel

219. Matthew 11:25-30

You have hidden these things from the learned and re-

vealed them to children.

220. John 6:37-40

This is the will of my Father, that I should lose nothing of

all that he has given to me.

[ For a child who had received the Eucharist]

221. John 6:51-58

Anyone who eats this bread will live for ever; and I will

raise him up on the last day.

222. John 11:32-38
,
40

If you believe you will see the glory of God.

II. PRAYERS

1

223. For a deceased child

Lord, hear the prayers for N. we offer in our sorrow.

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As we believe that this child, N., is now living in your kingdom,

so one day may we join him (her)

and together share the joy of eternal life.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

2

224.

For a deceased child

Father, we entrust to you this child

whom you loved so much in this life.

Welcome him (her) into paradise

where there will be no more sorrow,

no more weeping or pain,

but only peace and joy

with your Son and the Holy Spirit

for ever and ever.
225.

For the mourners

Lord, comfort this family in their sorrow.

You cleansed this child in the waters of baptism

and gave him (her) new life.

May we one day join him (her)

and share heaven's joys for ever.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

4

226.

For the mourners

Lord, may the prayers of Mary, the mother of God, assist us.

As she stood by the cross while her Son was dying,

so may she sustain these parents in their grief,

bring them the comfort of her own faith

and by her prayers, help them to eternal life.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

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III. INTRODUCTIONS TO THE FINAL COMMENDATION

AND FAREWELL

1

227. God, our Father, has made this child his adopted son

(daughter) through baptism. Now, in his wisdom, he has called

him (her) to himself. We reverently bury his (her) body knowing

that one day it will rise again to a new life that never ends. We
believe that this child has already entered eternal life. May God

strengthen and comfort his (her) parents and friends, and make

us all long for the joys of heaven.

2

228. With faith in Jesus Christ, we reverently bring the body of

this child to be buried in its human imperfection. Let us pray with

confidence to God who gives life to all things, that he will raise

up this mortal body to the perfection and the company of the

saints.

IV. RESPONSORY FOR THE FINAL COMMENDATION

AND FAREWELL

229. I know that my Redeemer lives, and on the last day I shall

rise again; * in my body I shall look on God, my Savior.

V. I myself shall see him; my own eyes will gaze on him; * in

my body I shall look on God, my Savior.

V. This is the hope I cherish in my heart; * in my body I shall

look on God, my Savior.

V. BLESSING OF THE GRAVE

230. Lord God, through your mercy

those who have lived in faith

find eternal peace.

Bless this grave

and send your angel to watch over it.

As we bury the body of this child

welcome him (her) into your presence,

and with your saints let him (her) rejoice in you for ever.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

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CHAPTER VIII

Various Texts for Funerals of Children

Who Die Before Baptism

I. SCRIPTURE READINGS

231. Isaiah 25:6,7-8 The Lord God will destroy death

for ever.

232. Lamentations 3:17-26 It is good to wait in silence for the

Lord God to save.

233. Psalm 25:4-5, 6, 7, 17,20

R. (1): To you, O Lord, I lift my soul.

or (3): No one who waits for you, O Lord,

will ever be put to shame.

234. Mark 15:33-46

Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last.

II. PRAYERS

1

235. Lord, listen to the prayers

of this family that has faith in you.

In their sorrow at the death of this child,

may they find hope in your infinite mercy.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

2

236. Father of all consolation,

from whom nothing is hidden,

you know the faith of these parents

who mourn the death of their child.

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May they find comfort in knowing

that you have taken him (her)

into your loving care.

(We ask this) through Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.

Another prayer
,
no. 226.

III. INTRODUCTION TO THE FINAL COMMENDATION

AND FAREWELL

237. Let us commend this child to the Lord,

and support his (her) parents in their sorrow with our

love and prayers.

The other texts may be chosen from those in the rite for bap-

tized children.

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