Helpful funeral planning guidelines specific to Queen of the Apostles Parish in Tomah-Warrens.

The Catholic funeral rite is divided into several stations, or parts, each with its own purpose. For this reason we recommend following the complete structure and making use of each station.

Click below to read through end of life decisions through a Catholic lens put together by the Roman Catholic Bishops of Wisconsin 

The Scripture readings are to be chosen only from the provided list. The Gospel is chosen by the priest unless one is specifically requested.

Those who read Scripture at a funeral Mass should be practicing Catholics, preferably with prior experience reading at Mass. This should also be someone who will be able to read at the funeral in a composed manner. If the family does not have anyone suited to do this, the parish can provide a reader.

Find the readings in their entirety here.

The Role of Music in the Funeral Liturgy

As you plan the funeral of a loved one or for yourself, you will be called upon to make important choices about the readings and prayers to be used during the rites. As you make these decisions, consider also the incredible power of music in the funeral Mass. Music may help us to express feelings that words alone may fail to convey. It may console and uplift us in times of sadness, and unite us with other mourners in faith and love. The music to be sung during the funeral liturgy need not necessarily be sad; rather, it can express our faith and joy in the resurrection. Queen of the Apostles is committed to helping provide music that will offer comfort and hope to those who gather to remember a loved one. 

Sacred and Secular

The music used in any Catholic funeral liturgy must first and foremost be liturgical music – that is, music that expresses the faith of the Church and has been approved for use in worship. Sacred music exists in a variety of styles, from chant to traditional hymns to contemporary songs. Music from secular sources is not permitted in church, but can be incorporated outside of the funeral Mass during the Vigil service or at the luncheon following the liturgy.

Recorded Music

According to a document published by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, “Recorded music lacks the authenticity provided by a living liturgical assembly gathered for the Sacred Liturgy.” (Sing to the Lord, 93) It is for this reason that the use of recorded music during the funeral Mass is strongly discouraged.

Suggested Musical Selections

A list of the most appropriate and most widely-requested liturgical music for funerals is provided. Congregational singing is a sign of our unity and is strongly encouraged, but a solo piece sung by a cantor may be appropriate at certain times during the liturgy.

To inquire about different music selections, or to make arrangements if a soloist is desired, please contact the parish office.

Today many families will ask that, instead of flowers, gifts in memory of the deceased be given to a particular cause. Queen of the Apostles Parish is a possible recipient of memorial gifts.