Funeral Masses

Because of our belief not only in the immortality of the soul, but also in the resurrection of the body, the Church professes hope in the face of death, and acts with charity in the funeral rites. While grief and sorrow are natural, the process also must begin to formalize next steps.

It is important to note: A funeral is not itself an actual sacrament but an expression of other sacraments.

First Steps...

The first step in this process is to contact your preferred Funeral Home.

If your family is in need of suggestions, do not hesitate to contact our office at 954-436-7944. The Funeral Home will make arrangements and scheduling directly with us. Specific questions dealing with Vigil Services, Masses and the Rite of Committal will be decided after these initial conversations have taken place. Family participation is critical to this process.

While we know friends and relatives may wish to assist in this process, please note our office can only discuss the situation with the individual who has legal control over the estate (spouse, next of kin, etc.).

The Journey

 The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops outlines the three stages of the liturgical journey:

• Visitation – Referred to as a Vigil Service or Wake Service, this is a time to remember those who have died as we enter into prayer asking for God to provide comfort and strength. This is normally led by a deacon or priest and occurs at the funeral home. An open or closed casket can be present as discerned by members of the family or as outlined in prior plans of the deceased.
• Funeral Mass – The Catholic Church strongly encourages the celebration of Mass in union with the parish community. Conducted by a priest normally at the church, specific liturgical requirements exist. Customization of certain areas including appropriate music selection and readings can occur in consultation with our parish. The use of secular music is prohibited.
• Burial (Rite of Committal) – Performed by a deacon or priest, this is our final act of faith. Conducted next to the grave or at the selected burial site, we place the body or ashes in a resting place that signifies the wait for the fulfillment of Christ's promise in the resurrection. While normally burial occurs immediately after a Funeral Mass, circumstances can require a delay. This can include transportation, burial site preparation or awaiting cremation. Within the Archdiocese of Miami, the Rite of Committal may only occur in three places: a grave, a tomb/mausoleum or a columbarium.
  

To learn more about Funeral Masses at Saint Edward Catholic Church, please contact our office at 954-436-7944, extension 207.