Funeral Planning

But in all these things we overcome, because of him that hath loved us. For I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor might, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord

– Romans 8:37-39

Planning the funeral mass for your loved one

The Clergy and parish family of Sacred Heart assure you of our prayers and loving support during your time of sorrow.

The details of arranging funeral services may feel overwhelming. Know that the funeral director at the funeral home is your main contact and will coordinate all services and times for your family, contacting the Church on your behalf. Reach out to the Funeral Home and Director first.
As you go through this preparation, we encourage you to consider the following:

A Mass of Resurrection

We encourage all Catholics, through those planning their funeral services, to have a Mass said on the day of their burial with the body present at the Church. The Mass is the prayer Jesus gave us at the Last Supper and is His Sacrifice that atones for the sins of our loved one whose body we honor with Christian burial. Of all the services we could choose, for Catholics, this is the most important as we ask God to mercifully cleanse our loved one of sin and receive him or her into his heavenly kingdom. Masses of Resurrection are scheduled at Sacred Heart during the weekdays, not on weekends because there are often weddings and baptisms.

Cremation

Catholics may choose cremation. The Church encourages us to wait until after the Mass of Resurrection to do the cremation so that the body is present at the Church for this Mass. When choosing cremation, please plan to inter the cremains in a grave or columbarium when you receive them from the funeral home. It is important to honor the cremains with a final resting place rather than keeping them in our homes. This is also important for us who grieve the death of our loved one, giving us closure.

Vigil Service

We encourage parishioners to have an evening vigil service for family and friends who may not be able to attend during the day. While the traditional prayer offered at the vigil is the Rosary, there is an option for a Liturgy of the Word that is more comforting for those attending who are from different Christian denominations. You may choose to have the Liturgy of the Word followed by the praying of the Rosary.

Funeral Reception Meal

At Sacred Heart, we offer a meal after the burial of your loved one for immediate and extended family members – for approximately fifty people. Please let us know if you desire this. Please also note that during the pandemic this option may not always be available.

Planning the Mass of Resurrection

To make this celebration more personal, we invite you to choose the Scripture Readings and to suggest hymns for the Mass. Use these links on this page recommended by the Church. Choose four readings: one from Old Testament, one from Responsorial Psalms, one from New Testament, and one from the Gospel.

STEP 1: Provide Names of those Placing Pall

The pall is the white cloth that covers the casket during a Catholic funeral. The pall recalls the white garment worn by Catholic Christians at the time of one's baptism. It may be placed on the casket by family members or friends. A pall is not placed over cremated remains. Flags and other insignia may cover the casket before and after the liturgy. If the deceased has a personal bible and/or cross, family members or loved ones are invited to place these on the casket at the beginning of Mass.

STEP 2: Select the 1st & 2nd Readings / Provide Reader Names

The first step in planning a funeral is to choose the Scripture readings to be read as part of the Liturgy of the Word.

First Readings

A-1 / 2 Macc. 12:43-46 (Expiation for the Dead)
A-2 / Wisdom 3:1-6, 9 (Counsels of God on Suffering)
A-3 / Wisdom 4:7-15 (On Early Death
A-4 / Isaiah 25:6a, 7-9 (The Mountain of the Lord)
A-5 / Lam. 3:17-26 (It is Good to Hope in the Lord)
A-6 / Eccles. 3:1-8 (For Everything There is a Season)

Easter Season

AA-1 / Acts 10:34-36, 42-43 (Jesus Christ is Lord of All)
AA-2 / Revelation 14:13 (Blessed are the Dead who Die in the Lord)
AA-3 / Revelation 21:1-5a, 6b-7 (The New Heaven and the New Earth)

Second Readings

B-1 / Romans 5:5-11 (Hope Does Not Disappoint)
B-2 / Romans 6:3-4, 8-9 (Freedom from Sin; Life in God)
B-3 / Romans 8:14-23 (Children of God)
B-4 / Romans 8:31b-35, 37-39 (God’s Love in Christ)
B-5 / 1 Cor. 15:51-57 (Where, O Death, is your Victory?)
B-6 / Romans 14:7-9, 10c-12 (Live and Die for Christ)
B-7 / 2 Tim. 4:6-8 (I Have Fought the Good Fight)
B-8 / 2 Cor. 4:14-5:1 (Eternal Dwelling in Heaven)
B-9 / 2 Cor. 5:1, 6:10 (We Walk by Faith)
B-10 / 1 Thess. 4:13-18 (Hope for the Christian Dead)
B-11 / 2 Tim. 2:8-13 (If We Have Died with Him, We Shall Also Live with Him)
B-12 / 1 John 3:1-2 (The Love of the Father)
B-13 - Revelation 21: 1-5a, 6b-7 (Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end)

Using the Funeral Planning Form, you are asked to choose one option from Sections A and B and also provide the name of person who will be reading each reading.

Note: The parish could provide parishioners who could read in the event that there is no one from the family who would like to read.

STEP 3: Selecting the Gospel

The second step is to choose the Gospel reading which will be read by the priest.

Gospel Readings

C-1 / Matthew 5:1-12a (The Beatitudes)
C-2 / Matthew 11:25-30 (For My Yoke is Easy, and My Burden Light)
C-3 / Matthew 25:31-46 (Come, You Who are Blessed by My Father)
C-4 / Luke 7:11-17 (Raising of the Widow’s Son)
C-5 / Luke 24:13-16, 28-35 (The Road to Emmaus)
C-6 / John 6:37-40 (I Shall Raise Him on the Last Day)
C-7 / John 6:51-59 (The Bread of Life)
C-8 / John 11:21-27 (I Am the Resurrection and the Life)
C-9 / John 12:23-26 (Unless a Grain of Wheat Falls)
C-10 / John 14:1-6 (I Am the Way and the Truth and the Life)

STEP 4: Selecting The Prayers of the Faithful

Following the homily, a family member or friend may read the General Intercessions. Click on link to review and select one of the following options:

Note: The presiding priest will read in the event that there is no one from the family who would like to read.

STEP 5: Provide 2 names to bring The Gifts of Bread and Wine for The Eucharist

Bread and wine are brought to the altar for the celebration of the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, which will be offered for the deceased.

Words of Remembrance (Optional)

One family member or friend may speak briefly in remembrance of the deceased and his/her life of faith, virtue and good works. The priest or deacon will introduce the person at the appropriate time. Families and friends are asked to preserve the sacred character of the Catholic Funeral, keeping in mind that the focus of a Catholic Funeral is Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal life. During the remarks, our praise should be directed toward God.

Once the Funeral Planning Form is completed, it is reviewed with the Liturgy & Music Director. Please inform us if there will be any Military honors or Civic Groups present such as the Knights of Columbus, VFW or Lyons Club.

After you have made all of your selections, please fill out the planning form.

Sharing Memories

Mass Intention

Rather than scheduling a private Memorial Mass, we encourage you to reserve a Mass Intention at the parish office and invite family and friends to attend. This allows others from the parish who attend daily or weekend masses to be present to pray with you and for the soul of your loved one.

First Anniversary – One Year Mass Intention

Again, instead of a private Mass, we encourage you to reserve a Mass Intention for your loved one on the date of the one-year anniversary of the death, or a date close to that one at which you and other family and friends may attend. This allows others in the parish family to be in prayer with you at this sacred time.

Bereavement Support Groups

We encourage you to consider journeying with others who have also experienced the death of a loved one. Currently, we offer groups in English or Spanish and there is a special group available for parents who have experienced the death of a child. Contact: Linda Galanos atlgalanos@consolidated.netor call(936) 525-8738

Individual and Family Counseling

As you experience grief, there are many emotions and sometimes you may feel overwhelmed. We invite you to consider talking with a Catholic Counselor at Gratia Plena. Their contact information is(832) 532-0129andwww.gratiaplenacounseling.org.

Does the Church recommend a Funeral Mass?

Yes, a celebration of the Mass is strongly encouraged for any Catholic who has died, even though the family may not be Catholic. On days when a Funeral Mass is not permitted, a prayer service is celebrated (for example, Funeral Masses are not scheduled on Sundays, Holy Days of Obligation, Holy Thursday, Good Friday, or Holy Saturday).

Can I choose the Scripture readings or does the Church choose them?

The family is encouraged to select the readings from Sacred Scripture. Click here for a selection of possible Old Testament, New Testament, and Gospel readings.

Can I choose the hymns for the Vigil Service and/or the Mass?

The family is encouraged to meet with someone from the worship office to help plan the music. Please be aware that there are a fixed number of liturgical texts at a funeral Mass, which affect what may be sung. Also note that recorded music or secular music cannot be used at Mass. A parish cantor will sing for the funeral. A list of many appropriate and commonly chosen hymns may be found by clicking here.

Can we have a reception after the funeral?

Depending on minister and room availability, we may offer a reception for immediate family, serving up to 50 of your guests.

If there is no visitation the evening before, can we have visitation one hour before the funeral?

With prior permission, the visitation can take place one hour prior to the funeral in the Narthex.

Can I have friends and family members offer a eulogy?

Yes, after communion a eulogy may be given for no longer than 3-5 minutes.

Does the Catholic Church allow cremation?

Yes, the Church permits cremation [CCC2301], but the Church still prefers burial or entombment of the deceased. Click here for a more detailed explanation.

Does the church charge for funerals?

There is no charge to use the church for a funeral or the parish hall for a meal after the funeral.

Can I bring flowers into the church?

Flowers may be brought into the vestibule of the church, but normally not into the nave and sanctuary of the church (with the exception of the casket spray or a small vase of flowers next to the cremains).

May I request a priest from another parish celebrate my funeral?

Yes, visiting priests are welcome at Sacred Heart.

Can we have a reception after the funeral?

Depending on minister and room availability, the goal of our Funeral Meal Ministry is to provide families with a light reception after the service at no charge. Please consult with the Parish Office for availability.

Will there be a program for the service?

Yes, a worship aid will be printed for the service.

Seek and You Shall Find

Mass Times

Sunday

7:30 AM
English (Organ/Cantor)

10:00 AM
English (Traditional/Contemporary)
Live Stream

12:30 PM
Spanish
(Traditional/Contemporary)
Live Stream

3:00 PM
Spanish (Contemporary)

5:30 PM
English (Contemporary)

Saturday

8:00 AM
English

5:00 PM
English (Organ/Choir)
Live Stream

7:00 PM
Spanish (Traditional)

First Saturday

9:30 am
English

Daily Masses

Monday - Friday

7:00 am
English (with Lauds)
Live Stream

Monday

12:10 pm
Spanish

6:00 pm
English
Live Stream

Tuesday and Thursday

12:10 pm
English

6:00 pm
Spanish
Live Stream

Wednesday

12:10 pm
Spanish

6:00 pm
English
Live Stream

Friday

8:30 am
English (School Mass)
Live Stream

First Friday

7:00 pm
Bilingual (English & Spanish)

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First Readings

First Reading: A-1 / 2 Maccabees 12:43-46
He acted in an excellent and noble way as he had the resurrection of the dead in view.

A reading from the second Book of Maccabees

Judas, the ruler of Israel, took up a collection among all his soldiers, amounting to two thousand silver drachmas, which he sent to Jerusalem to provide for an expiatory sacrifice. In doing this he acted in a very excellent and noble way, inasmuch as he had the resurrection of the dead in view; for if he were not expecting the fallen to rise again, it would have been useless and foolish to pray for them in death. But if he did this with a view to the splendid reward that awaits those who had gone to rest in godliness, it was a holy and pious thought. Thus he made atonement for the dead that they might be freed from this sin.

The word of the Lord.

First Reading: A-2 / Job 19:1, 23-27a
I know that my Vindicator lives.

A reading from the Book of Job

Job answered Bildad the Shuhite and said: Oh, would that my words were written down! Would that they were inscribed in a record: That with an iron chisel and with lead they were cut in the rock forever! But as for me, I know that my Vindicator lives, and that he will at last stand forth upon the dust; Whom I myself shall see: my own eyes, not another's, shall behold him; And from my flesh I shall see God; my inmost being is consumed with longing.

The word of the Lord.

First Reading: A-3 / Wisdom 3:1-6, 9
As sacrificial offerings he took them to himself.

A reading from the Book of Wisdom

The souls of the just are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them. They seemed, in the view of the foolish, to be dead; and their passing away was thought an affliction and their going forth from us, utter destruction. But they are in peace. For if before men, indeed they be punished, yet is their hope full of immortality; Chastised a little, they shall be greatly blessed, because God tried them and found them worthy of himself. As gold in the furnace, he proved them, and as sacrificial offerings he took them to himself. Those who trust in him shall understand truth, and the faithful shall abide with him in love: Because grace and mercy are with his holy ones, and his care is with his elect.

The word of the Lord.

First Reading: A-4 / Wisdom 4:7-15
An unsullied life, the attainment of old age.

A reading from the Book of Wisdom

The just man, though he die early, shall be at rest. For the age that is honorable comes not with the passing of time, nor can it be measured in terms of years. Rather, understanding is the hoary crown for men, and an unsullied life, the attainment of old age. He who pleased God was loved; he who lived among sinners was transported - Snatched away, lest wickedness pervert his mind or deceit beguile his soul; For the witchery of paltry things obscures what is right and the whirl of desire transforms the innocent mind. Having become perfect in a short while, he reached the fullness of a long career; for his soul was pleasing to the LORD, therefore he sped him out of the midst of wickedness. But the people saw and did not understand, nor did they take this into account.

The word of the Lord.

First Reading: A-5 / Isaiah 25:6a, 7-9
He will destroy death forever.

A reading from the Book of the Prophet Isaiah

On this mountain the LORD of hosts will provide for all peoples. On this mountain he will destroy the veil that veils all peoples, The web that is woven over all nations; he will destroy death forever. The Lord GOD will wipe away the tears from all faces; The reproach of his people he will remove from the whole earth; for the LORD has spoken. On that day it will be said: "Behold our God, to whom we looked to save us! This is the LORD for whom we looked; let us rejoice and be glad that he has saved us!"

The word of the Lord.

First Reading: A-6 / Lamentations 3:17-26
It is good to hope in silence for the saving help of the Lord.

A reading from the Book of Lamentations

My soul is deprived of peace, I have forgotten what happiness is; I tell myself my future is lost, all that I hoped for from the LORD. The thought of my homeless poverty is wormwood and gall; Remembering it over and over leaves my soul downcast within me. But I will call this to mind, as my reason to have hope: The favors of the LORD are not exhausted, his mercies are not spent; They are renewed each morning, so great is his faithfulness. My portion is the LORD, says my soul; therefore will I hope in him. Good is the LORD to one who waits for him, to the soul that seeks him; It is good to hope in silence for the saving help of the LORD.

The word of the Lord.

First Reading: A-7 / Daniel 12:1-3
Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake.

A reading from the Book of the Prophet Daniel

In those days, I, Daniel, mourned and heard this word of the Lord: At that time there shall arise Michael, the great prince, guardian of your people; It shall be a time unsurpassed in distress since nations began until that time. At that time your people shall escape, everyone who is found written in the book. Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake; Some shall live forever, others shall be an everlasting horror and disgrace. But the wise shall shine brightly like the splendor of the firmament, And those who lead the many to justice shall be like the stars forever.

The word of the Lord.

Only these readings may be selected as the First Reading during Easter Time.

First Reading: AA-1 / Acts 10:34-36, 42-43
He is the one appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead.

A reading from the Acts of the Apostles

Peter proceeded to speak, saying: "In truth, I see that God shows no partiality. Rather, in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him. You know the word that he sent to the children of Israel as he proclaimed peace through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all, He commissioned us to preach to the people and testify that he is the one appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead. To him all the prophets bear witness, that everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name."

The word of the Lord.

First Reading: AA-2 / Revelation 14:13
Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord.

A reading from the Book of Revelation

I, John, heard a voice from heaven say, "Write this: Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord from now on." "Yes," said the Spirit, "let them find rest from their labors, for their works accompany them."

The word of the Lord.

First Reading: AA-3 / Revelation 20:11—21:1
The dead were judged according to their deeds.

A reading from the Book of Revelation

I, John, saw a large white throne and the one who was sitting on it. The earth and the sky fled from his presence and there was no place for them. I saw the dead, the great and the lowly, standing before the throne, and scrolls were opened. Then another scroll was opened, the book of life. The dead were judged according to their deeds, by what was written in the scrolls. The sea gave up its dead; then Death and Hades gave up their dead. All the dead were judged according to their deeds. Then Death and Hades were thrown into the pool of fire. (This pool of fire is the second death.) Anyone whose name was not found written in the book of life was thrown into the pool of fire. Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth. The former heaven and the former earth had passed away, and the sea was no more.

The word of the Lord.

First Reading: AA-4 / Revelation 21:1-5a, 6b-7
There shall be no more death.

A reading from the Book of Revelation

I, John, saw a new heaven and a new earth. The former heaven and the former earth had passed away, and the sea was no more. I also saw the holy city, a new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Behold, God's dwelling is with the human race. He will dwell with them and they will be his people and God himself will always be with them as their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes, and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain, for the old order has passed away." The One who sat on the throne said, "Behold, I make all things new." I am the Alpha and the Omega, the beginning and the end. To the thirsty I will give a gift from the spring of life-giving water. The victor will inherit these gifts, and I shall be his God, and he will be my son."

The word of the Lord.

Second Readings

Second Reading: B-1 / Romans 5:5-11
Since we are now justified by his Blood, we will be saved through him from the wrath.

A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans

Brothers and sisters: Hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us. For Christ, while we were still helpless, died at the appointed time for the ungodly. Indeed, only with difficulty does one die for a just person, though perhaps for a good person one might even find courage to die.
But God proves his love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us.
How much more then, since we are now justified by his Blood, will we be saved through him from the wrath. Indeed, if, while we were enemies, we were reconciled to God through the death of his Son, how much more, once reconciled, will we be saved by his life. Not only that, but we also boast of God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-2 / Romans 5:17-21
Where sin increased, grace overflowed all the more.

A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans

Brothers and sisters: If, by the transgression of the one, death came to reign through that one, how much more will those who receive the abundance of grace and of the gift of justification come to reign in life through the one Jesus Christ. In conclusion, just as through one transgression condemnation came upon all, so, through one righteous act, acquittal and life came to all. For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so through the obedience of the one the many will be made righteous. The law entered in so that transgression might increase but, where sin increased, grace overflowed all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through justification for eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-3 / Romans 6:3-4, 8-9
We too might live in newness of life.

A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans

Brothers and sisters: Are you unaware that we who were baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? We were indeed buried with him through baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might live in newness of life. If, then, we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him. We know that Christ, raised from the dead, dies no more; death no longer has power over him.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-4 / Romans 8:14-23
We also groan within ourselves as we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies.

A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans

Brothers and sisters: Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you received a spirit of adoption, through which we cry, Abba, "Father!" The Spirit itself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs, heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if only we suffer with him so that we may also be glorified with him. I consider that the sufferings of this present time are as nothing compared with the glory to be revealed for us. For creation awaits with eager expectation the revelation of the children of God; for creation was made subject to futility, not of its own accord but because of the one who subjected it, in hope that creation itself would be set free from slavery to corruption and share in the glorious freedom of the children of God. We know that all creation is groaning in labor pains even until now; and not only that, but we ourselves, who have the first fruits of the Spirit, we also groan within ourselves as we wait for adoption, the redemption of our bodies.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-5 / Romans 8:31b-35, 37-39
What will separate us from the love of Christ?

A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans

Brothers and sisters: If God is for us, who can be against us? He did not spare his own Son but handed him over for us all, will he not also give us everything else along with him? Who will bring a charge against God's chosen ones? It is God who acquits us. Who will condemn? It is Christ Jesus who died, rather, was raised, who also is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us. What will separate us from the love of Christ? Will anguish, or distress or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or the sword. No, in all these things, we conquer overwhelmingly through him who loved us. For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-6 / Romans 14:7-9, 10c-12
Whether we live or die, we are the Lord's.

A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Romans

Brothers and sisters: No one lives for oneself, and no one dies for oneself. For if we live, we live for the Lord, and if we die, we die for the Lord; so then, whether we live or die, we are the Lord's. For this is why Christ died and came to life, that he might be Lord of both the dead and the living. Why then do you judge your brother? Or you, why do you look down on your brother? For we shall all stand before the judgment seat of God; for it is written: As I live, says the Lord, every knee shall bend before me, and every tongue shall give praise to God. So then each of us shall give an accounting of himself to God.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-7 / 1 Corinthians 15:20-23
So too in Christ shall all be brought to life.

A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians

Brothers and sisters: Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. For since death came through a man, the resurrection of the dead came also through man. For just as in Adam all die, so too in Christ shall all be brought to life, but each one in proper order: Christ the first fruits; then, at his coming, those who belong to Christ;

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-8 / 1 Corinthians 15:51-57
Death is swallowed up in victory.

A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians

Brothers and sisters: Behold, I tell you a mystery. We shall not all fall asleep, but we will all be changed, in an instant, in the blink of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. For that which is corruptible must clothe itself with incorruptibility, and that which is mortal must clothe itself with immortality. And when this which is corruptible clothes itself with incorruptibility and this which is mortal clothes itself with immortality, then the word that is written shall come about: Death is swallowed up in victory. Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting? The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-9 / 2 Corinthians 4:14—5:1
What is seen is transitory, but what is unseen is eternal.

A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians

Brothers and sisters: Knowing that the One who raised the Lord Jesus will raise us also with Jesus and place us with you in his presence. Everything indeed is for you, so that the grace bestowed in abundance on more and more people may cause the thanksgiving to overflow for the glory of God. Therefore, we are not discouraged; rather, although our outer self is wasting away, our inner self is being renewed day by day. For this momentary light affliction is producing for us an eternal weight of glory beyond all comparison, as we look not to what is seen but to what is unseen; for what is seen is transitory, but what is unseen is eternal. For we know that if our earthly dwelling, a tent, should be destroyed, we have a building from God, a dwelling not made with hands, eternal in heaven.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-10 / 2 Corinthians 5:1, 6-10
We have a building from God, eternal in heaven.

A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to the Corinthians

Brothers and sisters: We know that if our earthly dwelling, a tent, should be destroyed, we have a building from God, a dwelling not made with hands, eternal in heaven. We are always courageous, although we know that while we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord, for we walk by faith, not by sight. Yet we are courageous, and we would rather leave the body and go home to the Lord. Therefore, we aspire to please him, whether we are at home or away. For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each may receive recompense, according to what he did in the body, whether good or evil.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-11 / Philippians 3:20-21
He will change our lowly bodies to conform to his glory.

A reading from the Letter of Saint Paul to the Philippians

Brothers and sisters: Our citizenship is in heaven, and from it we also await a savior, the Lord Jesus Christ. He will change our lowly body to conform with his glorified Body by the power that enables him also to bring all things into subjection to himself.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-12 / 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18
Thus we shall always be with the Lord.

A reading from the first Letter of Saint Paul to the Thessalonians

We do not want you to be unaware, brothers and sisters, about those who have fallen asleep, so that you may not grieve like the rest, who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose, so too will God, through Jesus, bring with him those who have fallen asleep. Indeed, we tell you this, on the word of the Lord, that we who are alive, who are left until the coming of the Lord, will surely not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself, with a word of command, with the voice of an archangel and with the trumpet of God, will come down from heaven, and the dead in Christ will rise first. Then we who are alive, who are left, will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. Thus we shall always be with the Lord. Therefore, console one another with these words.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-13 / 2 Timothy 2:8-13
If we have died with him we shall also live with him.

A reading from the second Letter of Saint Paul to Timothy

Beloved: Remember Jesus Christ, raised from the dead, a descendant of David: such is my Gospel, for which I am suffering, even to the point of chains, like a criminal. But the word of God is not chained. Therefore, I bear with everything for the sake of those who are chosen, so that they too may obtain the salvation that is in Christ Jesus, together with eternal glory. This saying is trustworthy: If we have died with him we shall also live with him; if we persevere we shall also reign with him. But if we deny him he will deny us. If we are unfaithful he remains faithful, for he cannot deny himself.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-14 / 1 John 3:1-2
We shall see him as he is.

A reading from the first Letter of Saint John

Beloved: See what love the Father has bestowed on us that we may be called the children of God. Yet so we are. The reason the world does not know us is that it did not know him. Beloved, we are God's children now; what we shall be has not yet been revealed. We do know that when it is revealed we shall be like him, for we shall see him as he is.

The word of the Lord.

Second Reading: B-15 / 1 John 3:14-16
We know that we have passed from death to life because we love our brothers.

A reading from the first Letter of Saint John

Beloved: We know that we have passed from death to life because we love our brothers. Whoever does not love remains in death. Everyone who hates his brother is a murderer, and you know that no murderer has eternal life remaining in him. The way we came to know love was that he laid down his life for us; so we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers.

The word of the Lord.

Gospel Readings

Gospel: C-1 / Matthew 5:1-12a
Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven.

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew

When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. He began to teach them, saying: "Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven."

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel: C-2 / Matthew 11:25-30
Come to me and I will give you rest.

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew

At that time Jesus answered: "I give praise to you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him. Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves.
For my yoke is easy, and my burden light."

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel: C-3 / Matthew 25:1-13
Behold the bridegroom! Come out to him!

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew

Jesus told his disciples this parable: "The Kingdom of heaven will be like ten virgins who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The foolish ones, when taking their lamps, brought no oil with them, but the wise brought flasks of oil with their lamps. Since the bridegroom was long delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep. At midnight, there was a cry, 'Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him!' Then all those virgins got up and trimmed their lamps. The foolish ones said to the wise, 'Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.' But the wise ones replied, 'No, for there may not be enough for us and you. Go instead to the merchants and buy some for yourselves.' While they went off to buy it, the bridegroom came and those who were ready went into the wedding feast with him. Then the door was locked. Afterwards the other virgins came and said, 'Lord, Lord, open the door for us!' But he said in reply, 'Amen, I say to you, I do not know you.' Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour."

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel: C-4 / Matthew 25:31-46
Come, you who are blessed by my Father.

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Matthew

Jesus said to his disciples: "When the Son of Man comes in his glory, and all the angels with him, he will sit upon his glorious throne, and all the nations will be assembled before him. And he will separate them one from another, as a shepherd separates the sheep from the goats. He will place the sheep on his right and the goats on his left. Then the king will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father. Inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, a stranger and you welcomed me, naked and you clothed me, ill and you cared for me, in prison and you visited me.' Then the righteous will answer him and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? When did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? When did we see you ill or in prison, and visit you?' And the king will say to them in reply, 'Amen, I say to you, whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.' Then he will say to those on his left, 'Depart from me, you accursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the Devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me no food, I was thirsty and you gave me no drink, a stranger and you gave me no welcome, naked and you gave me no clothing, ill and in prison, and you did not care for me.' Then they will answer and say, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or ill or in prison, and not minister to your needs?' He will answer them, 'Amen, I say to you, what you did not do for one of these least ones, you did not do for me.' And these will go off to eternal punishment, but the righteous to eternal life."

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel: C-5 / Mark 15:33-39
Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last.

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Mark

At noon darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon. And at three o'clock Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eloi, Eloi, lema sabachthani?" which is translated, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?" Some of the bystanders who heard it said, "Look, he is calling Elijah." One of them ran, soaked a sponge with wine, put it on a reed, and gave it to him to drink, saying, "Wait, let us see if Elijah comes to take him down." Jesus gave a loud cry and breathed his last. The veil of the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom. When the centurion who stood facing him saw how he breathed his last he said, "Truly this man was the Son of God!"

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel: C-6 / Luke 7:11-17
Young man, I tell you, arise!

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke

Jesus journeyed to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd accompanied him.
As he drew near to the gate of the city, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was with her. When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, "Do not weep." He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, "Young man, I tell you, arise!" The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, exclaiming, "A great prophet has arisen in our midst," and "God has visited his people." This report about him spread through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region.

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel: C-7 / Luke 12:35-40
You also must be prepared.

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke

Jesus said to his disciples: "Gird your loins and light your lamps and be like servants who await their master's return from a wedding, ready to open immediately when he comes and knocks. Blessed are those servants whom the master finds vigilant on his arrival. Amen, I say to you, he will gird himself, have them recline at table, and proceed to wait on them. And should he come in the second or third watch and find them prepared in this way, blessed are those servants. Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour when the thief was coming, he would not have let his house be broken into. You also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come."

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel: C-8 / Luke 23:33, 39-43
Today you will be with me in Paradise.

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke

When the soldiers came to the place called the Skull, they crucified Jesus and the criminals there, one on his right, the other on his left. Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, "Are you not the Christ? Save yourself and us." The other man, however, rebuking him, said in reply, "Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom." He replied to him, "Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise."

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel: C-9 / Luke 23:44-46, 50, 52-53
Father, into your hands I commend my spirit.

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke

It was about noon and darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon because of an eclipse of the sun. Then the veil of the temple was torn down the middle. Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Father, into your hands I commend my spirit"; and when he had said this he breathed his last. Now there was a virtuous and righteous man named Joseph who, though he was a member of the council, went to Pilate and asked for the Body of Jesus. After he had taken the Body down, he wrapped it in a linen cloth and laid him in a rock-hewn tomb in which no one had yet been buried.

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel: C-10 / Luke 24:13-16, 28-35
Was it not necessary that the Christ should suffer these things and enter into his glory?

A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke

That very day, the first day of the week, two of the disciples of Jesus were going to a village called Emmaus, seven miles from Jerusalem, and they were conversing about all the things that had occurred. And it happened that while they were conversing and debating, Jesus himself drew near and walked with them, but their eyes were prevented from recognizing him. As they approached the village to which they were going, Jesus gave the impression that he was going on farther. But they urged him, "Stay with us, for it is nearly evening and the day is almost over." So he went in to stay with them. And it happened that, while he was with them at table, he took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and gave it to them. With that their eyes were opened and they recognized him, but he vanished from their sight. Then they said to each other, "Were not our hearts burning within us while he spoke to us on the way and opened the Scriptures to us?" So they set out at once and returned to Jerusalem where they found gathered together the Eleven and those with them, who were saying, "The Lord has truly been raised and has appeared to Simon!" Then the two recounted what had taken place on the way and how he was made known to them in the breaking of the bread.

The Gospel of the Lord.

Gospel: C-11 / John 5:24-29
Whoever hears my word and believes has passed from death to life.