Rite of Christian Burial

Eulogies
The grieving process necessarily includes time to remember the life of the deceased loved one. In the Catholic funeral rite, this is most appropriately done during the time of visitation, or at lunch. Since the funeral liturgy is primarily a time of prayer, diocesan policy forbids the inclusion of a eulogy during these rites.

Funerals with a Funeral Director
The standard procedure for a funeral at Blessed Trinity Catholic Parish is that a funeral director work with Blessed Trinity’s staff to set up the details of the visitation, funeral Mass or liturgy, interment, and luncheon. Normally, after news of death, the funeral home is contacted first. The funeral home will then contact Blessed Trinity to determine possible times and dates for a funeral Mass/liturgy. The family will meet with the funeral director and confirm the date/time. Family members should then contact Blessed Trinity to arrange for a meeting with the pastor. This is to choose scripture readings, hymns, and other details of the funeral liturgy.

Funerals without a Funeral Director
If the family of the deceased is not using a funeral home/director to plan the funeral, the pastor will work with the family to coordinate the funeral arrangements. When a funeral director is not used, all fees and stipends are paid directly by the family. In the case of financial hardship, the pastor may waive or reduce any and all fees/stipends. The following recommended fees/stipends are based on services rendered:

            Organist:         $100.00
            Cantor:            $75.00
            Priest:              $50.00

If the deceased is being interred at either parish cemetery, diggers must also be paid burial fees. For more information about interment, please visit our parish cemeteries page.

Vigils and Wake Services
Vigils and wakes may take place in the parish hall (Lodi) or gymnasium (Dane).  Set-up (flowers, easels, etc.) may take place anytime, however, caskets may only be set up beginning one hour before the funeral. Flowers may be left for use in the church at the discretion of the family as a temporary memorial to the deceased.  Memorials may be directed to Blessed Trinity Catholic Parish.

Guest Priest or Deacon
If the family of the deceased requests a guest clergy, a letter of suitability must be obtained and the pastor of Blessed Trinity is to be informed. The funeral liturgy will generally be presided over by Blessed Trinity’s pastor. The guest priest/deacon will always be welcome to concelebrate (or assist in the case of a deacon) as long as he is in good standing. At the discretion of the pastor, the guest priest/deacon may be permitted to give the homily, final commendation, and lead the service at the cemetery. Normally, a guest priest or deacon will not be the presider at a funeral liturgy.

Mass or Liturgy without Mass
The standard liturgy for a deceased Catholic who was in good standing with the Church is a Mass, with the body present. A Mass should always be the presumed format. If there is question about whether a liturgy without Mass might be more appropriate, the family should speak with the pastor.  In a case where the deceased is not a practicing Catholic, or lived a life publicly contradicting Catholic beliefs and practice, a liturgy without a Mass might be more appropriate.