Funeral Arrangements - Frequently Asked Questions

Is a vigil service necessary?  

Can Catholics be cremated? 

Can Catholics donate all or parts of their body to medical science? 

Must the coffin be open during the visitation? 

Can Catholics be buried in a non-Catholic cemetery?

Who can have a catholic funeral?

How much will it cost? 

From a Christian point of view, excessive amounts of money need not be spent on the dead. Christian faith is in the resurrected body. 

In addition to the burial expenses paid to the funeral home/crematorium & cemetery, there is a suggested donation for Church use ($200.00).  Musician’s fees vary, and are arranged with them directly.  The typical donation for the priest is $100.  Altar servers and Martha and Mary hospitality ministry may be offered a donation in gratitude for their services. 

Does the funeral liturgy need to be a Mass with Communion? 

Is it better for people to send flowers or donations?