Archdiocese announces new funeral policy

By ROB HERBST
The Catholic Week
Beginning Nov. 28, Words of Remembrance often delivered by loved ones of the deceased will now be given before, and not during, funeral Masses in the Archdiocese of Mobile.
Words of Remembrance spoken by one family member or friend are meant to be a brief conveyance of what was most loved about the deceased, including his or her Christian hope, faith and love. The Order of Christian Funerals has permitted for Words of Remembrance to be given during funeral Masses following the Prayer after Communion. 
In announcing the change in a letter to the people of the Archdiocese of Mobile, Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi said “mindful of our local traditions in celebrating funerals, it is more advisable that the Words of Remembrance by a member or friend of the family be conducted before the funeral Mass begins.”
The Words of Remembrance are optional and can be celebrated either during the vigil service or wake if held the evening before the Funeral Mass or before the funeral Mass — either during the visitation or at the conclusion of the visitation and before the start of Mass.
“The placement of Words of Remembrance at the Vigil or before Mass still allows for continuity with the funeral rites but distinguishes it from the funeral Mass and its solemn act of entrusting the deceased person to Almighty God,” Fr. Valladares said. 
“This act is presided over by the celebrant and most fittingly brings to close the act of commendation of the soul. Words of Remembrance are more appropriately placed before the funeral Mass since they do not have the official intention to commend the soul.”