About the Readings 

In every celebration for the dead, the Church attaches great importance to the reading of the word of God.  The readings proclaim to the Assembly (those gathered) the Paschal Mystery (Christ has died, is risen, and Christ will come again).  Above all, the readings tell of God's designs for a world in which suffering and death will relinquish their hold on all whom God has called his own.

A careful selection and use of readings from Scripture for the funeral rites will provide the family and the community with an opportunity to hear God speak to them in their needs, sorrows, fears, and hopes (Order of Christian Funerals, #22).

In collaboration with the priest or other parish minister assisting you, select one each from the choices for First Reading, Second Reading, and Gospel Reading.  Please note that non-biblical texts cannot replace Scriptural readings at the Funeral Mass.  Also, the Scripture readings cannot be edited or changed.

Please contact the office of Music & Liturgy (Director Jean Toman: 302-731-2219)

How to Pick the Readings

• UT or NT: One Scripture for the First Reading
• If the funeral liturgy is NOT during the Easter Season, the First Reading is from the Old Testament,select from the "OT" section.
• If the funeral liturgy is during the Easter Season (the 50 days from Easter Sunday to Pentecost Sunday) the First Reading is taken from the New Testament, select from the  "NT" section
• NT: The Second Reading is always taken from the New Testament , Select from the "NT" Selection
• G: The Gospel Reading is chosen from Matthew, Mark, Luke, or John, Select from the"G" Selection  (Please check with the Presider of the funeral liturgy before selecting; they may wish to select this reading for you.)

Attachments:

Funeral Readings