We desire to serve you in every way as you come to this tender moment. This is an important time of grief, faith, celebration, tears and a reminder of our own journey to the gift of eternal life.
Contact our Parish Office for more information.
The Paschal Candle, or Easter Candle, will be placed near the coffin during the Funeral Mass or Liturgy. This candle reminds the faithful of Christ’s undying presence among them, of his victory over sin and death, and of their share in that victory by virtue of their baptism. Holy Water is used during the funeral rites to remind us of the saving waters of baptism.
Holy Water is normally sprinkled on the casket when the body is received into the Church and again before the body is buried. It can also be used at the time when the family gathers around the presence of the body.
Incense is a sign of the community’s prayers for the deceased rising up to God. Incense may be used after the priest reverences the altar during the opening hymn. It is customary to also incense the casket during the Song of Farewell, before the procession to the cemetery.
A Pall is used to cover the casket when it is brought into the Church. It is a large white covering that reminds us of the white garment used at baptism and as a sign of the Christian dignity of the person and of being “clothed in Christ”. As this symbol recognizes that “all are equal in the eyes of God” (James 2:1-9), you will find that even the most decorated deceased veteran will have the flag replaced with the simple symbol of the white pall.
Catechism of the Catholic Church
For information regarding specific topics, please navigate to the following chapters:Diocese of Winona-Rochester - Information about Catholic Cemeteries
USCCB (United States Conference of Catholic Bishops) - Bereavement, Funerals and Cremation