Arranging a Funeral at St Cecilia's

A black and white silhouette of a wreath with flowers and leaves.

Arranging a funeral service.

Our thoughts are with you in your time of loss. We are here to support you in planning a fitting and meaningful funeral at St. Cecilia's.

We Are Here To Help


There can be a great shock in losing a loved one; you are probably reading this page with many emotions, and we are here to walk with you as gently and kindly as we can.


It may be the first time you have had to arrange a funeral. So we will do everything we can to support you with things that may be very unfamiliar, to help you in honouring the life of the person who has died, commending them to our loving God in the hope of the Resurrection.


The person who has died may have left very clear wishes for their funeral or may have left nothing at all, especially if their death has been sudden. 


St Paul promises us that "love never comes to an end", and we trust in that. If the life of the person who has died was somewhat complicated, adding to the troubles you feel; we will walk with you in whatever way is best, and we will welcome you with compassion and hope. So please call or email, and we will be there for you.


What Is A Catholic Funeral


A Catholic funeral is an act of worship and thanksgiving to God for the gift of the life of the person who has died. It also offers hope and consolation to those left behind.


Because Catholics believe that God sees every person's life as precious, our parish community will remember you and your loved one in our prayers. They will also be remembered by name in bidding prayers at Mass and in the parish newsletter.


Catholic Funeral Liturgy


The Catholic Funeral Liturgy has its particular ritual forms and texts. However, within this framework, there is some flexibility with options for readings, music, and the sharing of memories of the person who has died.


A Catholic funeral can be unique, personal and comforting with time and good preparation.


Why Have a Catholic Funeral?


A Catholic funeral provides hope at what is often the bleakest time of our lives. It holds out the promise of eternal life and the gift of God's mercy.


When you are mourning the death of a loved one, the opportunity to pray for them and those left behind gives you a sense of purpose. It helps you to make sense of your loss and will console you in your grief.


Here are some examples of prayers for the grieving.


Making Sense Of Loss


Fr Martin Shipperlee of Ealing Abbey in west London says:


"Death is a great dis-enabler and grief disables. Those who are grieving need action, and by praying for their loved one they are doing something."


Arranging the funeral of someone close to you is one of the most loving things you can do, but it can also be daunting. The Catholic Church will help you prepare and support you in the process.


Who Can Have A Catholic Funeral?


Any Catholic can have a Catholic funeral. This applies even if they didn't go to Mass.


Someone who isn't a Catholic may have a Catholic funeral if their family asks for one. The usual reason for this would be that the deceased was married to a Catholic or was preparing to become a Catholic.


Someone who has died by suicide can have a Catholic funeral.


Funerals For Unbaptised Babies


There are funeral rites for babies who have been miscarried, stillborn or died before baptism. If you are a Catholic, please get in touch with the parish office for more information.


Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions to help guide you through the process of planning a funeral at St. Cecilia’s Church.

  • What is a Catholic funeral?

    A Catholic funeral is an act of worship and thanksgiving to God for the life of the person who has died. It also offers hope and consolation to those left behind. The funeral includes prayers, readings, and rituals that express our faith in eternal life. We will also include your loved one in our prayers at Mass and in the parish newsletter.

  • What if I have never arranged a funeral before?

    If this is your first time arranging a funeral, we will guide you through each step of the process. This includes meeting with our priest to discuss your loved one's wishes, choosing appropriate readings and music, and coordinating with the funeral directors. We are here to make the process as smooth as possible.

  • Who can have a Catholic funeral?

    Any Catholic can have a Catholic funeral, regardless of whether they attended Mass regularly. Additionally, someone who is not Catholic may have a Catholic funeral if their family requests one, especially if the deceased was married to a Catholic or was preparing to become one. Those who have died by suicide may also receive a Catholic funeral.

  • Are there funeral rites for unbaptised babies?

    Yes, the Catholic Church provides funeral rites for babies who were miscarried, stillborn or died before baptism. These rites help honour the life of the child and offer comfort to grieving families. If you are in this situation, please get in touch with the parish office for guidance and support on arranging these rites.

  • What if my loved one left clear wishes for their funeral or none at all?

    Whether your loved one left clear instructions for their funeral or no guidance at all, we will help you honour their life in the best way possible. We will discuss their wishes or help you make decisions regarding the service, ensuring that it is meaningful and respectful.

  • Why have a Catholic funeral?

    A Catholic funeral provides hope by holding out the promise of eternal life and God's mercy. It also allows you and your family to pray for your loved one, which can bring comfort and a sense of purpose during a time of grief.