Funeral Mass: Liturgy of The Word
Family members or friends are encouraged to participate in the Liturgy of the Word by assuming readings that are chosen.

First Reading (Old Testament)
A member of the family or another person reads one of the selected Old Testament readings from the Order of Christian Funerals.

Responsorial Psalm (Song of Praise)
Usually the responsorial psalm is sung.  The psalm can also be read by a family member or friend.

Second Reading (New Testament)
A member of the family or another person reads one of the selected New Testament readings from the Order of Christian Funerals.

Gospel
The celebrant or deacon reads the Gospel from the selections in the Order of Christian Funerals.  The Gospel is usually chosen by the family.

Homily
The celebrant often refers to the thoughts that have been provided by family or others that show how the loved one lived out the Christian way and values.

General Intercessions/ Prayers of the Faithful
The celebrant opens the Intercessions with a short prayer.  A member of the family reads the intercessions they chose during the meeting with the Bereavement Minister.  More than one person may read them.  The celebrant finishes with a short prayer.