The clergy and staff of the Concord-Carlisle Catholic Collaborative offer our sincere condolences on the loss of your loved one. We pray that your cherished memories, together with the hope and consolation of our Catholic faith, will bring you comfort and peace during this difficult time.
We are here to accompany you and help ease the burden of planning the Funeral Mass. It is an honor and a privilege for our Collaborative to support your family as you remember your loved one and entrust them to the loving mercy of God.
Preparing for the Funeral Mass
The resources provided on this page will guide you through the planning process, including Scripture readings, music selections, and options for the Prayer of the Faithful. As you review these materials, we invite you to select readings and music that are meaningful to your family and appropriate to the Catholic Funeral Mass.
Please know that you do not have to navigate this process alone. Our clergy and staff are available to guide you and answer any questions along the way.
Family members and friends are encouraged to participate in the Funeral Mass. When making your selections, you may consider inviting individuals to serve in the following roles:
First Reading – from the Old Testament
Second Reading – from the New Testament
Prayer of the Faithful
Presentation of the Gifts – two people may bring forward the bread and wine
The family may also select the Gospel reading, which will be proclaimed by the priest or deacon.
A binder containing the selected Scripture readings and Prayer of the Faithful will be placed at the ambo before the Funeral Mass. Readers do not need to bring printed copies with them.
Remembrance
A family member or friend may offer Words of Remembrance during the Funeral Mass. The Church asks that the Words of Remembrance:
Offered by one person on behalf of family
Take place after the Final Commendation or before the Song of Farewell
Family-friendly and appropriate for all ages
Kept to no more than five minutes
The Words of Remembrance should focus on the deceased's life, faith, relationships, and the qualities and memories that family and friends wish to honor. We encourage the person offering the remembrance to prepare their remarks in advance. Our clergy and staff are available to provide guidance or answer any questions as you prepare.
We're Here to Help
We understand that planning a funeral while grieving can feel overwhelming. Please do not hesitate to contact the Parish Center Office with questions, concerns, or if you need assistance making your selections.
Concord-Carlisle Catholic Collaborative Parish Center Office 978-369-7442 [email protected]
It is our privilege to walk with you during this time and to pray with you as we commend your loved one to the Lord.