This helpful checklist is designed to guide families through the planning of a Catholic Funeral Mass at Saint Francis de Sales. It includes key decisions and liturgical options such as Scripture readings, music selections, placement of the pall, and family participation roles. This resource offers a step-by-step outline to ensure the liturgy is prayerful, meaningful, and faithful to the Church’s traditions—bringing comfort, peace, and dignity during a time of grief.

The readings at a Funeral Mass proclaim the hope of eternal life and the promise of resurrection through Jesus Christ. To assist families in planning, we have prepared a curated list of Scripture passages approved by the Church for use at Catholic funerals. This includes options for the First Reading (Old Testament), Second Reading (New Testament), and Gospel. Families may select readings that reflect their loved one’s life and faith journey.

The Responsorial Psalm follows the first reading and invites the congregation to respond in prayerful reflection. These Psalms, drawn from Scripture, express themes of hope, trust, and God's eternal mercy. A curated selection of approved Psalms is provided to assist families in choosing a piece that reflects their loved one’s faith and the comfort of God’s promises. The parish music director is available to help coordinate the sung setting during the Funeral Mass.

Music plays a vital role in the Funeral Mass, offering comfort, expressing our faith, and honoring the life of the deceased. The hymns and sacred music chosen should reflect the solemnity and hope of the liturgy, lifting hearts in prayer and trust in God’s mercy. Families are invited to select from a list of approved liturgical hymns that are appropriate for the Funeral Mass. Our parish music director is available to assist in making selections that are both meaningful and liturgically appropriate.

The General Intercessions, also known as the Prayers of the Faithful, are offered during the Funeral Mass as a way for the congregation to pray together for the deceased, their family and friends, the Church, and the world. These prayers reflect our hope in the resurrection and entrust our loved one to God’s loving mercy. Families may choose from the provided intentions or work with the priest or funeral coordinator to include special petitions that reflect their loved one’s life and faith.