You don't have to do this alone
Your parish will walk with you through every step. The priest, deacon, and parish staff have helped many families through this process. Call the parish office first -- they will guide everything else.
Typical Timeline
Notify the Parish
Call the parish office as soon as possible after the death. The priest or parish staff will begin coordinating the funeral arrangements with you. Ask about available dates and times for the funeral Mass.
Contact a Funeral Home
The funeral home handles the body, coordinates with the parish on scheduling, and helps with legal paperwork (death certificate, permits). They will also ask about burial vs. cremation preferences.
Cremation RulesChoose Readings & Music
The family selects one reading from each of four sections: Old Testament, Psalm, New Testament, and Gospel. You can browse all 55 readings here, or take the 2-minute quiz for personalized recommendations. You'll also choose hymns for five moments of the Mass.
Browse ReadingsGenerate the Booklet
Once you've chosen readings and music, generate a print-ready funeral booklet with the full order of service, prayers, and congregational responses. Email it to family members or print copies for the pews.
Generate BookletThe Vigil (Wake)
Usually held the evening before the funeral at the funeral home or church. A prayer service with scripture readings, psalms, and time for family and friends to pay their respects. The vigil prayers are available in our prayers collection.
Funeral PrayersThe Funeral Mass
The central liturgy. Includes the Liturgy of the Word (your chosen readings), the Liturgy of the Eucharist, and the Final Commendation. Typically 45-60 minutes. See the ceremony guide for a detailed walkthrough of every part.
Ceremony GuideThe Committal
Final prayers at the cemetery or place of interment. A brief, solemn rite commending the deceased to God. Usually immediately follows the funeral.
What to Bring / Prepare
- Baptismal certificate of the deceased (the parish may have this)
- Death certificate (funeral home provides)
- Photo for the funeral program or display
- List of pallbearers (usually six)
- Scripture readings chosen by the family — Browse readings
- Music selections for five moments of the Mass — Music guide
- Names of anyone doing readings or presenting gifts
- Printed booklet for the pews (we can generate one for you) — Generate booklet
Typical Costs
These are typical ranges in the United States. No one is ever turned away from a Catholic funeral for inability to pay.
Church Stipend
A suggested donation to the parish (not a fee). Typically $200-500. No one is turned away for inability to pay.
Music Director/Cantor
If the parish provides musicians, a separate stipend is customary. Typically $100-300.
Funeral Home
The largest expense. Varies widely by region and services. Average $7,000-12,000 for full service.
Start Planning Now
Take the 2-minute quiz for personalized reading recommendations, or browse all 55 approved readings directly.