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Funerals are solemn occasions that require a deep understanding of cultural and religious practices to show respect for the deceased and their loved ones. In Catholic funerals, particular traditions and customs are observed that reflect the faith’s views on death and the afterlife. This guide explores the essential aspects of Catholic funeral etiquette, including appropriate attire, respectful behaviors, and ways to express condolences. By adhering to these practices, attendees can provide comfort and support to the bereaved family while honoring the memory of the deceased in a manner that aligns with Catholic beliefs.
Catholics believe that after death, one’s soul will be separated from their body, and will be judged before God. Thereafter, one would be sent to either Heaven, Hell, or Purgatory (where those who are not fully purified will be purified and later sent to Heaven) based on their actions.[1]
Catholic funerals are centred around prayers for the deceased’s soul, seeking “spiritual support for the deceased, honours their bodies, and at the same time bring the solace of hope to the living”.[2]
1) Reception of the Body
When the coffin first arrives at the venue of the service or wake, a Prayer Vigil may be said to remember the deceased and commend them to God. This may be accompanied by music, readings and sharing of memories of the deceased.[3]
2) Catholic Wake and Vigil Service
Catholic wakes are held, where all are welcomed to pay their respectsto the deceased. Expressing condolences and sharing of memories of the deceased is encouraged, commemorating the deceased.
Prayers may be said during the Vigil, where Scripture may be read, along with reflections. These prayers are typically focused on having mercy on the deceased’s soul, and praying for love and support for those who mourn the deceased.
3) Catholic Funeral Mass (Optional)
Funeral Mass is encouraged, although not optional. Typically, a Funeral Mass would be conducted at the church that the deceased frequented.
There would typically be prayers, hymns, sprinkling of the coffin with holy water, Holy Communion, and readings from the Bible.
4) Cremation or Burial
Catholics are not opposed to cremation, although burials are preferred.[4]
The Rites of Committal, which commits the body to its resting place, is typically said before the cremation or burial, which acknowledges that the deceased will be passed to fellow believers in heaven, with God in their presence.
1) Dress in Dark Colours - Funeral Attire
Refrain from wearing bright colours and opt for darker colours. Wearing black is a common choice. Avoid wearing revealing dressing and lavish jewellery.
For funerals or Mass conducted in a church, formal dressing is advised. Men should be in a suit and tie, while women should be in a formal skirt or dress.
2) Express Your Condolences to the Family
Upon arrival, greet the family and express your condolences.
3) Listen Respectfully to the Funeral Mass
Set aside time to attend the Funeral Mass in full, and follow the cues of the pastor, such as when to stand and sing.
4) Flowers, Banners and Donations
Funereal, white flowers and banners are commonly accepted as expressions of condolences.
In Singapore, monetary contributions are also common,to aid the family in covering funeral expenses. Donations are voluntary, with chief importance to be sincere in your expression of condolence to the family.
5) Respect their beliefs, regardless of yours
As with all other religious funerals, please respect the beliefs and traditions of the funeral, regardless of your beliefs. Understanding the meaning behind proceedings aids one in respecting and engaging with them to commemorate the deceased in the way they wanted.
Your presence, empathy and respect will go a long way in remembering and honouring the deceased and provide comfort to their next-of-kin, knowing that they are not alone in grief.
The average price of a Catholic Funeral in Singapore is $7,092. Compare, filter and sort prices here.
