Catholic Funerals
In the Light of the Resurrection
Sharing Your Wishes for Your Funeral
Planning ahead for your funeral may feel unusual. In the days after a death, families are often making many decisions while grieving. A few written thoughts, a favourite hymn, a reading, or simply a word about what faith has meant to you, can bring clarity and peace for them.
For Catholics, a funeral is more than a farewell. It is an act of faith. The Church gathers to pray for the dead and to proclaim the hope of the resurrection. The prayers, readings, and symbols of the funeral liturgy remind us that through Baptism we have already been united with Christ in death and resurrection.
Your parish will likely have a full resource, with approved Scripture readings and hymns, for you to read and complete. We strongly encourage you to ask for a copy of this from your parish priest or office. This worksheet is just a starting point for ideas and personal reflection. It is not official and does not replace your parish’s guidance.
Always consult your parish priest for the approved Order of Christian Funerals (OCF), local customs, and to ensure everything aligns with Church norms. In New Zealand’s multi-cultural context, parishes may incorporate elements sensitive to these traditions, but these must be discerned with your priest to respect Catholic liturgy.
If you would like to begin thinking about these things, the following prompts may help. When the time comes, your parish priest will always guide your loved ones through the funeral rites.
Taking time to reflect on these things is not about dwelling on death, but about expressing faith in the promise of eternal life.
The Vigil Prayer
Often, the evening before the funeral, family and friends gather for a vigil of prayer. This may include Scripture, the Rosary, or quiet sharing of memories. It can take place at home, in the church, or at a funeral home.
You might wish to note:
Where would you prefer the vigil to be held?
Would you like the Rosary prayed or another family prayer and who would lead should a priest not be available?
Scripture Readings
The Order of Christian Funerals provides an approved lectionary with options: typically one reading from the Old Testament, one from the New Testament, and one Gospel (Psalm to discuss with priest). Check your parish's full list. Common inspirations include Isaiah 43:1-3, Psalm 22(23), Romans 6:3-9, and John 14:1-6.
If you have a specific reading in mind, you might note:
Old Testament or Psalm
New Testament reading
Gospel passage
Music and Hymns
Music allows the Church to pray with both grief and hope. Hymns often stay with us throughout life — sung at Mass, at weddings, at moments of joy and sorrow. Common inspirations: “Here I Am, Lord”, “Make me a channel of your peace” or “How Great Thou Art”.
You may wish to consider:
Are there hymns that have meant something to you?
Would you prefer a cantor, choir, or particular musician if possible?
Symbols of Faith
Catholic funerals are rich in symbolism. At the beginning of the funeral Mass the coffin is sprinkled with holy water, recalling baptism. Sometimes families also place a Bible, a cross, or rosary beads near the coffin.
You may wish to note any preferences.
Remembrance
A short reflection on the deceased’s life and faith may be shared during the vigil or at the beginning or end of Mass.
Sometimes the most helpful thing for family and priest is simply knowing what faith has meant in your life.
You may wish to consider:
Was there a ministry, devotion, or part of parish life that mattered to you?
Is there something you would like remembered about your faith?
Commital: Burial or Cremation
The Church traditionally prefers burial of the body, but cremation is permitted provided it does not deny belief in the resurrection of the body (Catechism of the Catholic Church 2301).
You might wish to note:
Your wishes for burial or cremation
Place of burial or interment (if known)
Whether you have a preference for donations to a charity instead of flowers
Participation of family and friends
In the celebration of the funeral rites, lay people may serve as readers, musicians, ushers, pall-bearers, and, according to existing norms, as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion. Family and friends should be encouraged to take an active part in these ministries if possible. You may like to write some of your own prayers of the faithful with guidance. These are always a great way to include younger children too.
Make your wishes known
Bring your notes to your parish priest for review when you are ready, and complete with official resources. These are only starters, your parish ensures fidelity to Catholic tradition.
See more about
Contact the Catholic Diocese of Hamilton
Address: 47 Clyde Street, Hamilton East 3216
Phone: 07 856 6989
Postal: PO Box 4353, Hamilton East 3247
Email: office@cdh.org.nz
Established in 1980, the Catholic Diocese of Hamilton, New Zealand spans from Te Kauwhata to Waihī, and Taumarunui to Gisborne.
"Living the Truth in Love"
