Music

In times of grief and sorrow, we often turn to music as an expression of our faith. It can be a great source of comfort and consolation to the living. In the Funeral Liturgy, there are places where the singing of hymns is required: The Opening Hymn or Gathering Song (when we enter the church), The Hymn during the Presentation of Gifts, a Communion Hymn, The Song of Farewell, and a Recessional Hymn. It is traditional at Catholic funerals to sing a variation of the Ave Maria immediately after Holy Communion has been received.  A Cantor and Accompanist will assist with leading the assembly in song.  

Although a funeral is a time to pray and remember the decedent in prayer and song it is also an occasion to worship and praise almighty God for the gift of the person who has died.  For this reason, conscious  that we are gathered at a funeral to worship God, the only music permitted are approved hymns which you can find in the document below.  It is not permissible to have popular or secular songs or any form of electronic music during the Mass.
 
Please note:  Only the parish's cantor and accompanist are assigned to provide sacred music for the funeral mass.