Priest, deacon funerals follow Code of Canon Law

Church authorities rightly oversee the celebration of funeral rites, which are conducted under the auspice of the Catholic church. The local bishop reserves the right to make policy exceptions or final decisions regarding all funeral arrangements for a deceased priest or deacon. The funeral rites for deceased priests or deacons are to follow the Code of Canon Law.

A priest is to be buried in clerical attire or in Mass vestments, including an alb or stole provided by the diocese or his family. A deacon is to be buried either in alb and stole or street attire as determined by the documents provided by the deceased or as determined by the family/executor.

For the funeral home, if the deceased is a priest, deacon or nun, the funeral director must discuss the preparation of the body with the church representation. Most priests, deacons and nuns request religious items be placed with them, such as a rosary, a sacred heart, or a metal.

During the visitation, candles are placed at each end of the casket. A crucifix is placed behind the casket, and a kneeling bench is placed in front of the casket. The rosary is usually prayed at the visitation and the funeral Mass will be held in church as it is for all Catholics who request it. During the funeral Mass, when the casket is led to the altar, the casket is reversed or placed perpendicular (at a right angle) to the altar.

For laymen and nuns, the foot of the casket will be closest to the altar so the body is facing the altar as they had done in life. Priests will be placed so their head is closest to the altar, again to symbolize their facing the congregation as they had in life.

St. Joseph Funeral Home may be reached at (574) 288-4685 or visit www.SJFH.org.