The Rite of Committal
Funeral Policy
The Rite of Committal is celebrated at the place of burial or interment and never in the church.
1. The Rite of Committal, whether at an interment chapel, at a mausoleum or at a graveside, is a gathering of the faithfill for prayer.
2. Military services and certain cultural or social rites are permissible at the cemetery. These other services should be arranged in advance with the local parish priest and coordinated in such a way that they do not disrupt or distract from the integrity of the liturgical committal service. Funeral directors are called upon to assist in the coordination of these elements, and to safeguard the integrity of the Church's liturgy at the Rite of Committal.
3. If a lengthy time has passed since the celebration of the Funeral Mass, or if the funeral has been conducted overseas or in a distant state, the Rite of Committal with Final Commendation (OCF #224-233) may be more appropriate.