We know the benefit of praying for the dead with the rites of the Church. Here at St. Mary’s we approach each funeral taking to heart the need to act well and honorably, taking account of the resurrection (2Mac 12:43).

The normal structure of Catholic funerals includes three parts: the Vigil (also known as the wake), the Funeral Service at church (normally in the context of a Mass), and the burial (either full body or if necessary after cremation).

To help you plan for your own funeral, we put together the following: