I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die.” (John 11:25-26)
It is a great honor and privilege to eulogize a family member or loved one that has passed. The Roman Catholic faith is based upon the incarnation, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. We believe that at death, “Life is changed, not ended.” In honoring the memory of your loved one, please keep these guidelines in mind as you prepare your words.
First and foremost, please be mindful that you will be presenting the eulogy during the course of the Roman Catholic Mass – the most sacred liturgy offered in remembrance of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Remember to always maintain a sense of dignity, solemn respect and decorum in preparing and presenting your eulogy. Your words will serve to comfort the family and loved ones and also commemorate and celebrate the life of the deceased.
The eulogy should be no more than four minutes long (normally one typed page). It is requested that you write out the eulogy in order to keep yourself focused, on-point and within the time limit. Be sure to practice it aloud.
It is important that you make reference to the spiritual life of the deceased. If possible, try to share the thoughts and hopes of the deceased concerning the afterlife. Try to concentrate upon the life of the loved one, highlighting his or her virtues and qualities.
If you have any questions or doubts, please confer with Fr. Brian prior to the Mass.
Due to time constraints, only one person may give the eulogy at the Funeral Mass. However, if there are several people that wish to eulogize the departed, there are opportunities at the end of the Rite of Committal at the cemetery. Another option is to speak at the repass following the Rite of Committal. These are other ideal times to share thoughts and memories of the deceased.