In the Catholic faith, there are typically three funeral rites. The following of these rites is an important practice that signifies the passing of a loved one from this world to the next and their going with God. Following the vigil and the funeral liturgy, the final rite is the committal.
What Is the Committal Ceremony?
The committal ceremony typically happens at a graveside, although it can happen in other locations, like a mausoleum. The committal is the act of returning the decedent to the earth and acknowledging that their spirit has now gone with God. During this ceremony, an officiant, often a priest, will lead the congregation through a series of prayers and scripture readings.
If the ceremony is happening in a cemetery, the decedent will then be lowered into their grave. Guests are invited to say a final farewell, often throwing flowers or handfuls of dirt atop the grave as they say goodbye. The officiant will then typically offer a closing prayer or say a few final words.
What Happens After the Committal Ceremony?
After the committal ceremony, the burial or other method of final disposition occurs. It’s also common for guests to spend some time by the graveside, offering their condolences to the family and friends of the decedent.
What happens after a committal ceremony can vary, but it’s common for guests to be invited to attend a gathering with the family of the decedent. This gathering is often called the funeral reception, but you might also hear it called the repast.
This reception is a time for togetherness, in which stories and memories are shared about the decedent and family and friends find support in one another. Traditionally, the repast or reception also includes food of some kind, either a full meal or simply hors d’euvres and other small bites. This gathering can happen at a restaurant, family member’s home, or another location that may be significant to the family.