Guidance for those who Speak at a Catholic Funeral

The following information may be helpful to those who may speak in remembrance of the deceased at the Vigil (Wake) or Funeral Mass:

- One or two speakers are better then a series of speakers.

- Reflections are best remembered if kept to around to around five minutes in length, i.e., approximately one typed single-spaced page.

- Reflections written out beforehand are best, especially if a speaker becomes emotional.

- It is best to speak compassionately and honestly, recalling circumstances of the life of the deceased.

- The content might include:

   Inspiring qualities of the deceased including their life of faith.

   How the deceased may be best remembered.

   How our relationship with the deceased is maintained even in death and how we    look forward to meeting them again in the future.