Funeral Mass is about living and the dead

Amid claims by Bishop Michael Smith that funeral Masses are being ‘dumbed down’, Fr Paul Crosbie notes that they are as much about offering comfort to the living as it is praying for the peaceful repose of the dead

WHEN a loved one dies, the family contacts the local priest to help prepare for the funeral Mass. They do so because they have a desire to pray for and accompany their loved one on their final journey. They do so, because deep within their faith, they know that the Mass is a sacred moment, a solemn prayer that offers them hope and consolation in eternal life. They want to commend their loved one to the grace and mercy of God. The funeral Mass too offers the opportunity for the Christian community to pray for the dead and to “be with the family”.

It is normal practice for the local priest to visit the home of the deceased before the funeral Mass. From my work as a curate in a parish, it is a humbling experience to share the family’s grief and to offer support. I share this time with them and, above all, I listen to their memories, to hear their pride and sadness. In between the tea and tears, we make preparations for the funeral Mass.