My girlfriend's father passed away on Tuesday and they told her family that they either had to rush into a Friday service or wait until next Tuesday?
Is the celebration of Christmas so much more important than the needs of the congregation as to prevent funeral services two days before Christmas?
As an added bonus, the cemeteries are turning people away because they are too busy.
2006-12-21 01:53:29 · 9 answers · asked by MЯ BAIT™ 6 in Society & Culture ➔ Religion & Spirituality
A Catholic funeral Mass NEVER takes place on Sunday or a Holy Day of Obligation. Since there is an Anticipation Mass on Saturday, that would also mean funerals are not conducted on Saturday.
Your girlfriend and her family should know that.
As for the cemetery. . . well, you will have to take that up with them.
Also note that most Catholic funerals do not take place the same week that the person died.
To someone before me that mentioned money - Catholic funerals are FREE to the family. It is suggested that there be an honorarium and most diocese put that at $50.00 so money isn't an obstacle
2006-12-21 02:22:25 · answer #1 · answered by Anonymous · 1⤊ 2⤋
I'm not Catholic, but I would imagine that - at least for Sunday - there are simply too many functions going on in the church to "fit in" a funeral. Funerals are not small deals to a church. My mother was a church secretary for 20 years, and funerals were basically all-day processes, so Christmas Eve would definintely be out.
Blessed Yule, and my deepest sympathies for your girlfriend's loss.
)O(
2006-12-21 01:59:02 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 2⤊ 0⤋
I thought they never did funerals during the weekend. all the ones i've been to were on Fridays. And this is for all churches that I've attened funerals at.
SEcondly, I think cemeteries are turning people away because they are full. Think that ground isn't growing but the bodies are piling up. We humans die every day, and there is no place to put us anymore.
Thirdly, I don't think any religion has funerals during their religious festivals. I highly doubt the Jews have a funeral during Hannakah.
2006-12-21 02:09:58 · answer #3 · answered by sister steph 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
The church forbids funerals on these days because of the recognition of Christ's death for all mankind. (Been there, been upset about this.) This can really be a hinderance, as I am sure you don't want to prolong this any longer then you have to, but rules are rules. My condolences to you and your family.
2006-12-21 03:19:22 · answer #4 · answered by Reagan 6 · 1⤊ 1⤋
It's because just like department store Christmas is the biggest "selling" season for Catholics (and most christian religions) Why would they do a funeral that can only bring a nominal fee instead of Christmas mass that will bring thousands...bottom line they don't care about you...your girlfriend or her loss...it's all about the Benjamin's baby!!!
2006-12-21 02:05:01 · answer #5 · answered by Mick R 2 · 2⤊ 4⤋
A funeral on Christmas is just the most depressing idea I have ever heard of. What are you going to do? Sing a rousing chorus of jingle bells while they bury him?
2006-12-21 01:58:56 · answer #6 · answered by Huey from Ohio 4 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I don't think the catholic church has anything to do this, I believe is is just a function ot traffic flow. Its not the fact that it is Chrsitmas but just time demands in general.
I don't think the catholic church is guilty on this one.
2006-12-21 02:02:55 · answer #7 · answered by Desperado 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
The celebration of the birth , death and resurrection of Jesus is the most important date and event ever recorded. Great reason to celebrate over death. Death o death where is your sting.
2006-12-21 01:57:20 · answer #8 · answered by TROLL BOY 3 · 2⤊ 0⤋
It's the same reason why you can't get married during lent. NOTHING comes before the almighty guy in the sky...even the death of a loved one.
btw - I think the way the church handles this is complete and utter crap.
2006-12-21 01:58:24 · answer #9 · answered by Squirrel 4 · 1⤊ 2⤋
Her father can wait...hes dead for Gods sake, Its Christmas, Do you have off on Christmas?
2006-12-21 01:56:49 · answer #10 · answered by wizzygirl10 3 · 2⤊ 4⤋