Article 27 of the ORDER OF CHRISTIAN FUNERALS states: "A brief homily based on the readings is always given after the gospel reading at the funeral liturgy and may also be given after the readings at the vigil service; but there is never to be a eulogy."

Since the grieving process includes a time to remember the life of the deceased loved one, the Eulogy is most appropriately done during the time of visitation, at the meal following the funeral mass or at the vigil (wake) service (the Rosary). The homily is to help members of the assembly understand that the mysteries of God's love and the mystery of Jesus' victorious death and resurrection were present in the life and death of the deceased and that these mysteries are active in their own lives as well. The funeral mass is primarily a time for praise and thanks to God for the gift of eternal life and the Resurrection in Christ.

The approved lectionary readings for funeral masses can be found below. You will need to make two selections:

• One Scripture for the first reading
  • If funeral mass is NOT during Easter Season, the first reading is from the Old Testament. Old Testament
  • If funeral mass is during the Easter Season, the 50 days from Easter Sunday to Pentecost Sunday, the first reading is taken from the New Testament. Easter Selections
• The Responsorial Psalm Responsorial Psalm
• The second reading is chosen from the New Testament. New Testament