Eternal Rest: The Art of Dying Well
What Are Some Symbols in a Catholic Funeral?
Episode 24 • 6m 28s
No part of the funeral liturgy is accidental—even the smallest components have significance.
Through the Church, God meets us in our most fundamental need. Christ, who is fully present in the liturgy, walks with us every step of the way through pain, sorrow, and grief.
“There is no more wonderful celebration of God’s mercy than celebrating the Eucharist.”
Every word and action within the liturgy and funeral rite bears significance. For instance, before beginning the opening prayer, the priest reverences the altar by kissing it. The altar reminds us of the stone on which Jesus’ Body was laid after his sacrifice on the Cross—the stone on which He rose from the dead after three days. After the Mass, the funeral liturgy continues at the graveside during the committal.
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