Scripture Readings
Families may help select readings from Sacred Scripture for the Funeral Liturgy. Your funeral planner will explain where each reading is used and who may proclaim it.
Funerals at Notre Dame
“Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.” — Matthew 5:4
On behalf of the Notre Dame parish community, we extend our deepest sympathies during this time of loss. Please know that our parish staff and Bereavement Ministry are here to walk with you as you prepare the funeral liturgy for your loved one.
After you meet with the funeral director, they will contact Notre Dame, and a member of our Bereavement Team will reach out to help you prepare the liturgy. You do not need to make these decisions alone.
Planning ahead?
The resources below may help you begin thinking about readings, music, family participation, and Words of Remembrance before meeting with your funeral planner.
What to Expect
The Catholic funeral rites ordinarily unfold in three moments of prayer.
1
Vigil / Wake Service
Prayer with family and friends, usually held at the funeral home before the Funeral Liturgy.
2
Funeral Liturgy
The principal celebration in church, centered on our faith in Christ’s death and resurrection.
3
Rite of Committal
The Church’s final prayer at the place of burial or interment.
Planning the Funeral Liturgy
Your funeral planner will guide you through each choice. These resources are here if you would like to review them in advance.
Family Participation
Family members or friends may serve as readers and may assist with the Prayer of the Faithful. Your funeral planner will help determine the best roles for those who wish to participate.
Words of Remembrance
One family member or friend may offer brief Words of Remembrance near the conclusion of the Funeral Liturgy. These remarks should reflect on the life of the deceased in the light of faith.
Words of Remembrance should be prepared in advance and should not exceed approximately three to four minutes.
Cremation
The Church permits Funeral Liturgies with cremated remains. If cremation is planned, your funeral director and parish funeral planner can help explain the Church’s practices regarding the Funeral Liturgy and committal.
Music for the Funeral Liturgy
Music is an important part of Catholic worship and gives voice to the Church’s prayer, hope, and faith in the resurrection.
Notre Dame provides an organist/pianist and cantor for the Funeral Liturgy. Our Music Ministry will help select appropriate sacred music and will gladly consider hymns that were especially meaningful to your family.
Because the Funeral Liturgy is an act of worship, music used during the liturgy should be sacred and appropriate for Catholic prayer.
Common Funeral Selections
These are examples of music frequently used at Notre Dame. Our Music Ministry will help your family choose appropriate music for each part of the liturgy.
Be Not Afraid
Entrance or Closing
Entrance or Closing
On Eagle’s Wings
Entrance, Preparation, or Closing
Entrance, Preparation, or Closing
Here I Am, Lord
Entrance or Closing
Entrance or Closing
One Bread, One Body
Communion
Communion
Ave Maria
Meditation
Meditation
How Great Thou Art
Entrance or Closing
Entrance or Closing
A Gentle Guide for Words of Remembrance
Words of Remembrance are different from a traditional eulogy. They offer a brief reflection on the life of the deceased in the context of faith.
- One speaker
- Prepared in advance
- About 3–4 minutes maximum
- Appropriate to the sacred setting of the Funeral Liturgy
Need Help Choosing?
That is exactly what the Bereavement Team is there for. You are welcome to review these materials ahead of time, but there is no expectation that you arrive with everything decided.
Your funeral planner will walk through the liturgy with you and help make selections that are prayerful, fitting, and personal.
We Are Here to Help
Notre Dame Church
359 Central Avenue, North Caldwell, NJ 07006
Parish Office: 973-226-0979