Catholic Funerals & Burials

What You Need to Know: Catholic Funeral & Burial

These guidelines, prepared by the Catholic Health Association of BC, assist loved ones with the requirements for a Catholic funeral.

“He will wipe away all tears from their eyes; there will be no more death and no more mourning or sadness or pain.” Rev. 21:4

Who to Notify:
• Caregivers & Hospital Staff: Inform them the person is Catholic so they can follow proper procedures.
• The Parish: Contact the deceased's Parish as soon as possible.
• The Priest: Funeral and cemetery arrangements cannot be finalized until the family discusses the rites personally with the priest.

Funeral Rites & Cremation

The Celebration: Catholic teaching consists of bringing the body to the Church for a Mass, followed by interment, preferably in the consecrated ground of a Catholic cemetery.

Cremation Policy: While accepted, the body of the deceased must be present in the Church for the Mass of Christian Burial. Therefore, cremation must be delayed until after the Funeral Mass has taken place. Ensure the pastor and the Funeral Director are informed of cremation plans.

Wake, Eulogies & Resources

The Wake: A prayer service may be offered (usually the afternoon or evening preceding the funeral) for the community to pray for God’s mercy and strength.

Eulogies: A eulogy is not part of the funeral Mass. It may take place at the wake or a post-funeral gathering. Seek the priest’s direction if a eulogy is desired. A printed souvenir leaflet with biographical details is a recommended alternative.

Full Guidelines: Available in the 1999 booklet for BC and Yukon.
• Online: View Guidelines PDF
• Office: Call the Catholic Health Association of BC at 604-524-3427.