Q. Can a family member or friend speak at a Catholic funeral?

A. There are two occasions when a family member or friend may speak during the Catholic funeral rites.

The first occasion may take place after the closing prayer of the Vigil Service (Wake).  This is an appropriate time where the family and friends may stay and share their stories, poems, songs, and fond memoiries of the deceased person.  If the only opportunity for visitation will take place immediately prior to the Funeral Mass, time could be given for these reflections.

A second occasion when someone may speak in remembrance is following the prayer after Communion at the Funeral Mass.  To speak on this occasion, prior approval from the priest celebrant of the Funeral Mass is recommended.