Funerals Arrangements

Whether a death is anticipated or unexpected, it is a very difficult time for those close to the deceased. It is also a time when many decisions need to be taken, often very soon after the death, and this can cause considerable stress.

Funeral Directors

Each family is invited to make arrangements in consultation with the Priest and Undertaker. The two funeral directors located within our parish are as follows, although the family are welcome to choose any undertaker they wish.

Reposing usually takes place on the day before Requiem Mass and burial/cremation.

Removal to the Church can take place on the evening or just before the Requiem Mass. Some families opt to bring their loved one’s remains home and others may opt for the funeral home.

Quinn’s Undertakers – Athenry
Caheroyan, Athenry
Co. Galway,
H65 KP70

Tel: 091-844652
Mob: 087-9241708

Suitable Times

Times for the funeral ceremonies and reposing/removal can only be arranged in consultation with the Priest and the undertaker. Please note: Funeral Masses will be celebrated from Monday to Saturday only.

Prayers at the Wake and Removal

Families who choose to wake a loved one at home may like a priest to call to the house and conduct a Prayer Service for the deceased. This normally takes place at night at a time which is convenient to everyone. The Prayer Service includes readings, prayers, the rosary, an opportunity to reverence the body and perhaps some Sacred music.

Arranging Music

Music for Funeral Masses is normally arranged through Eileen Keane (contact via Parish Office). Sacred Music only is allowed during the Requiem Mass. An alternative choice can be played as the remains are removed for burial/cremation.

Readings and Prayers

The family will normally choose the readings and prayers for the Funeral Mass.  The priest is always on hand to assist with this. There is a first reading, a psalm which may be read or sung, a second reading, a Gospel and Prayers of the Faithful (usually six). There are a number of choices available as shown in the suggested readings and prayers above. Families may choose from these templates and are welcome to compose their own prayers.

Symbols of a Life

Symbols may be presented to the Altar at the beginning of the Requiem. They can represent their family, their faith, their work and their interests. This is an option which families may choose to include or not.  A few words of each symbol can be read out by a family member or the priest. At the Offertory the bread and wine can be presented at the Altar by close relatives of the deceased.

Eulogy

A few words about the deceased and a few words of ‘thanks’ can be expressed by the family at the beginning or end of Mass, (max 3 minutes).