A Catholic Funeral Program, Set in the Order of the Mass

The funeral liturgy unfolds in four movements: the introductory rites (greeting, sprinkling with holy water, placing of the pall, opening prayer), the liturgy of the word (first reading, responsorial psalm, second reading, Gospel acclamation, Gospel, homily, prayers of the faithful), the liturgy of the Eucharist (presentation of the gifts, Eucharistic prayer, Communion rite), and the final commendation and farewell (invitation to prayer, song of farewell, prayer of commendation, procession). EZdoc sets the program in this order with your readings and hymns.

Families typically choose one Old Testament reading (Wisdom 3:1-9 and Isaiah 25:6-9 are common), a responsorial psalm (Psalm 23 above all), a New Testament reading (Romans 5:5-11, 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18), and a Gospel (John 14:1-6 is the most chosen). The parish priest or music director confirms the selections — give EZdoc your final choices and they are listed with citations.

The celebrant and deacon, the readers for each reading, the gift bearers (often grandchildren), the musicians or cantor, and the pallbearers — active and honorary when distinguished. Many programs also name the funeral home. List names exactly as the family gives them; EZdoc sets them verbatim.

Yes — many parishes appreciate a program that cues the congregation: when to stand, the response 'And with your spirit', the hymn numbers from the parish hymnal. Say you want congregational cues and EZdoc includes them quietly alongside the order of the Mass.

Often, yes — most parishes review the program before printing, particularly the order of the liturgy and the readings. Generate your draft early, bring the PDF to the parish office, then edit any line live as the celebrant requests changes.