The Parish of St Kessog’s is a Parish of the Catholic Archdiocese of St Andrews & Edinburgh

St Anthony’s Church Balfron

St Kessog’s Church Blanefield

Funerals

“Jesus said, ‘I am the resurrection. Anyone who believes in me, even though he dies, will live, and whoever lives and believes in me will never die.’” — John 11:25

We extend our deepest condolences to all families mourning the loss of a loved one. The Church stands with you in prayer during this sacred time. Below are the guidelines for arranging a funeral at St Kessog’s Catholic Church.

 

Arranging a Funeral

Families are kindly asked to contact an undertaker of their choice. The undertaker will liaise with the parish office and the cemetery or crematorium to arrange the date and time of the funeral.

Once arrangements are in place, the priest who will celebrate the funeral will reach out to the family to assist with choosing appropriate hymns, readings, and liturgical details.

The usual form of a Catholic funeral is a Requiem Mass. If this is not appropriate, a Catholic funeral service may be celebrated at the crematorium or funeral parlour.

 

Funeral Times

Funerals at St Kessog’s typically take place during weekday morning Mass at 10:00am, unless otherwise arranged.

 

Readings

Funeral readings are taken from Sacred Scripture:

  • First Reading (Old Testament)
  • Responsorial Psalm
  • Optional Second Reading (New Testament)
  • Gospel (chosen by the priest)

Family and friends may read the Scripture passages. If preferred, a parish reader can be assigned. The person who reads the first reading typically also reads the psalm, unless it is sung. The second reader may also proclaim the Gospel Acclamation.

 

Eulogy

If the family wishes, a eulogy may be offered by a member of the family, close friend or relative. This takes place after Holy Communion and before the Final Commendation.

 

Music

A Requiem Mass usually includes four hymns:

  • Entrance
  • Offertory
  • Communion
  • Recessional

Only Catholic hymns is permitted during the liturgy. Please note that recorded music cannot be played, as the parish does not hold a PLL license.

 

Psalm

The Responsorial Psalm may be sung if desired, but this is optional. It must be a psalm, not a hymn.

 

Offertory Procession

Two to four people may present the gifts during the offertory. Please inform the celebrant of your preference.

 

Blessing at Communion

Those who are not Catholic or unable to receive Holy Communion are warmly invited to come forward for a blessing. Simply cross your arms over your chest to indicate this.

 

Flowers

Families may arrange flowers with a florist of their choice. These may be placed on the coffin or arranged on the sanctuary as appropriate.

 

Donation

  • Church Use: There is no charge for funerals. However, to support the upkeep of the church, a donation of £100 is kindly suggested.
  • Celebrant Offering: It is customary to offer £100 to the priest or deacon who celebrates the funeral.

If you have any questions or special requests, please contact the parish office. We are here to support you in faith, compassion, and prayer.