To the Editor:
[Re: The Quiet Corner: “Skipping the funeral Mass robs the deceased and the mourners,” by Fr. John A. Kiley, Nov. 27 edition]
As a practicing Catholic, the funeral Mass is most important to both the deceased and family. It allows closure and healing. The grieving process is not linear, and can present issues long after the burial, but faith is definitely a help in the grieving. The Mass not only gives comfort, but allows families and friends to come together one last time to remember the deceased.
I agree, in today's society many people look for easy, quick solutions to any issue. One thing you did not mention was the financial burden relatives have to resolve. I recently had a friend die and the family chose a prayer service officiated by a priest, because the cost of a Christian mass and burial was far beyond their financial allotment for burial.
Can you explain why a funeral Mass is $200, the organist is $150 and if you want a soloist is another $l50? I called various churches in the state and was given the same quote. I have attended many funeral Masses, and cannot see why this is so expensive vs. a requested anniversary/memorial mass at $25. Yes, in a funeral Mass the celebrant greets the deceased, says a few prayers while families cover the casket. From there the Mass is celebrated as usual probably with adding incense. There is usually three hymns and the deacon blessing the deceased at the cemetery. I surely hope that if a family really wanted a Mass and could not afford it, the "donation" would be waived.
Your article failed to address the "real privilege" of a Catholic burial – if you have been an active church member, practicing Catholic, you may consider a "no charge" for a final Mass and burial. After going through months of a lengthy illness a greater comfort would be a beautiful Catholic Mass free of charge and not having to worry about another bill.
Elizabeth Bisci
North Providence
