Catholic Funeral Rites

Catholic funeral rites honor the deceased through a series of sacred rituals, typically including a vigil or wake, the funeral Mass, and burial or cremation. The vigil involves prayer, reflection, and remembrance, serving as a peaceful farewell. The Mass, a central act, offers prayers, scripture readings, and the Eucharist to entrust the soul to God's care. Burial or cremation follows, symbolizing respect for the body and hope in eternal life. These rites provide comfort, community support, and spiritual reassurance, emphasizing the belief in resurrection and the reunion of the soul with God.