Funeral Regulations

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Please consider the following regulations when planning a funeral Mass at either OLGH or St. Theresa Shrine. It is the obligation of every parish to provide for a dignified Catholic burial that respects the integrity and sacredness of the Liturgy:

· Eulogies are never permitted during any funeral Mass. However, this may be done during the committal ceremony or wake service. The same applies for the reading of poems or any extra-liturgical requests.  

· The family may choose and deliver readings that are only the approved liturgical texts for a funeral Mass. Only one reading is necessary prior to the Gospel, but two are permitted. Lectors must be Catholics in good standing. Generally, the Prayer of the Faithful will be done by the deacon or priest celebrant, if the priest chooses to incorporate this in the Mass.

The use of outside musicians/soloists is not permitted. We employ a highly skilled organist and soloist who are contracted to provide sacred music.    All hymns must be liturgical and appropriate to Holy Mass. Secular hymns or recorded music is never permitted during the Liturgy itself.