This is a time when we remember death as the necessary precursor of eternal life. Faith makes it both possible and necessary for us to speak of “celebrating a funeral.” It is a good time to reflect on Catholic funeral liturgy.
Usually the occasion of death gathers the “survivors” for prayer at least twice; first on the evening before the burial, and then the funeral itself. The two liturgies complement each other in the sort of prayer that is appropriate to each.
The vigil is a special time for remembering the individual from whom we have been separated. Though it often takes place in a funeral home, any active member of our parish may request that the funeral vigil for their family member take place in church. This may even be advisable if a large attendance is anticipated. Some families in our community still request the rosary. This is understandable since the rosary properly prayed is a meditation in faith that seems to fit when there are no words that seem adequate. Thus we are happy to honor the request, but I must also offer some cautions. If many of those gathered for prayer are not Catholic, or even if Catholic are not accustomed to the prayer form, then the rosary may be experienced as a prayer of endurance at best and perhaps for some be totally incomprehensible.
Actually the Roman Catholic Ritual makes no mention of the rosary in the vigil rite, but presumes a Liturgy of the Word that has been adapted to the occasion. The Word of God has a central place in this prayer, but can be readily supplemented by special meditations and testimonials dedicated to the memory of the one who has died. Often these are borrowed from other sources but may well be composed by members of the family or friends. The vigil is easily adapted to the creativity and spontaneity of the mourners.
The funeral liturgy is more solemn and formally structured. If members of the immediate family or closest friends are practicing Catholics it is usually (though not always) celebrated within the context of the Eucharist. The focus has shifted from the individual to the mystery of Jesus’ death and resurrection in which we all participate in faith. Thus the personalized tributes which perfectly fit the night before need to be set aside now. To be sure, there are still options which the family is encouraged to make their own. The Scriptures for both the vigil and the funeral should be chosen to fit the occasion of this person’s participation in the mystery of faith. A similar sensitivity is welcomed in the choice of hymns. It should always be remembered, however, that Catholic liturgy, and especially sacramental liturgy, is never something to be passively watched and listened to. Thus live meditational music may be appropriate at times such as the preparation of gifts or communion but can never displace participational music at other times. We pray together for the one who has died and in anticipation of our own deaths.