Guidelines For Planning The Funeral

Since the liturgical celebrations of the funeral bring together family and friends who are experiencing deep grief, the ritual itself should minister to these people. Therefore, the ritual should be attentive to all the senses; be marked by beauty, dignity, and reverence; and with simplicity invite the participation of the assembly. The Word of God ministers to the grieving as it proclaims the paschal mystery and comforts the sorrowful. Although nonbiblical readings should not replace Scripture, they can be used in addition to biblical readings. John Donne's sonnet "Death Be Not Proud" and Anne Sexton's "Awful Rowing Toward God" are two examples of religious poetry suitable for a funeral. The Psalms are particularly responsive to the needs and moods of the community, expressing the depths of grief as well as the heights of praise. These ancient songs cut through time and culture to touch the core of human longing. Psalm 23 ("The Lord is my shepherd") is often prayed or sung at funera…