Order of a Memorial Mass
Order of A Memorial Mass (When no Remains are present)
(Please Stand)
- Entrance (priest processes into church)
- Greeting
- Penitential Act (expression of sorrow for sins)
- Opening Prayer
Liturgy of the Word (Scripture Readings)
(Please be seated)
- First Reading
- Responsorial Psalm (sung)
- Second Reading
(Please stand)
- Gospel Acclamation
- Gospel
(Please be seated)
- Homily
(Please stand)
- Prayers of the Faithful
(Please be seated)
- Presentation of the Gifts (bread & wine) and Preparation of the Altar
- Prayer over the Offerings
- Eucharistic Prayer
- Preface/Introductory Prayers
- Holy, Holy, Holy
(Please kneel, if able)
- First half of prayer, including Consecration
- Mystery of Faith
- Second half of prayer
(Please stand)
- The Lord’s Prayer
- Sign of Peace
- Lamb of God
(Please kneel, if able)
- Reception of Holy Communion**
- Prayer after Holy Communion
- Optional eulogy or remembrance, please be seated during this time
(Please stand)
- Final Prayers
- Greeting and Blessing
- Dismissal
**Practicing Catholics who are not conscious of serious sin and have observed the one- hour fast (water & medication excluded) may receive Holy Communion. Non-Catholics are welcome to approach the priest with arms crossed over the chest for a blessing.
Adapted from The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
Important Note Regarding Postures (sitting, standing, kneeling) at Mass: These postures are optional and do not have to be undertaken, especially if they would cause discomfort due to advanced age, injury, or infirmity.
For additional information about Catholic funerals, please visit the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops page at: http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/bereavement-and-funerals/index.cfm
