Funeral Mass Readings Ireland: Approved Readings and Responsorial Psalms

How the Readings Work at a Catholic Funeral Mass

The Liturgy of the Word at a Catholic funeral follows a fixed structure: one Old Testament reading, a responsorial psalm, one New Testament reading, a Gospel acclamation, and the Gospel reading. Of these, family members or friends typically select the first reading, the psalm, the second reading, and a Gospel from the parish's approved list, confirming selections with the priest; the priest or deacon proclaims the Gospel.

This structure is non-negotiable — it comes from the Church's Order of Christian Funerals and applies across all Irish dioceses. But within that structure, families have real choice. Understanding what is available turns a potentially stressful parish meeting into a straightforward conversation.

Choosing the First Reading (Old Testament)

The most commonly chosen Old Testament readings at Irish funerals include:

• Wisdom 3:1-9 — "The souls of the just are in the hand of God." By far the most popular choice. Its message that the faithful dead are at peace, despite appearances, speaks directly to mourners.
• Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 — "There is a time for everything." Familiar, rhythmic, and comforting in its acceptance of life's seasons.
• Isaiah 25:6-9 — "He will destroy death forever." A passage of hope centred on God's promise to wipe away tears.
• Lamentations 3:17-26 — "The Lord is good to those who wait for him." Particularly chosen when the death followed suffering or a long illness.
• Job 19:1, 23-27 — "I know that my redeemer lives." Chosen frequently when the deceased had strong personal faith.

Family members, friends, or members of the parish community can read the first reading. It does not need to be read by someone ordained.

The Responsorial Psalm

The psalm is sung or recited between the first and second readings. Common choices include:

• Psalm 23 — "The Lord is my shepherd." The most recognisable and most requested psalm at Irish funerals.
• Psalm 27 — "The Lord is my light and my salvation." Strong and confident in tone.
• Psalm 42 — "Like the deer that yearns for running streams." Often chosen when the deceased loved nature or the outdoors.
• Psalm 103 — "The Lord is compassion and love." Gentle and reassuring.
• Psalm 130 — "Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord." Particularly suited to difficult or sudden deaths.

The psalm is usually led by the parish cantor or choir. If the parish has a regular soloist for funerals, they will be familiar with the musical settings available. Discuss this with the parish sacristan or music coordinator when booking the funeral.

The Second Reading (New Testament)

Popular choices for the second reading include:

• Romans 8:31-39 — "Nothing can separate us from the love of God." One of the most comforting passages in scripture for the bereaved.
• 1 Corinthians 15:51-57 — "Death, where is your sting?" A passage of triumph and resurrection hope.
• 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 — "We shall be with the Lord forever." Often chosen for its directness about reunion after death.
• Revelation 21:1-7 — "He will wipe every tear from their eyes." Vivid imagery of comfort and renewal.
• Romans 6:3-9 — "Christ, having been raised from the dead, will never die again." Theologically dense but powerful at a funeral.

Again, a family member or friend may read this passage.

What You Cannot Read in Church

Secular poetry, non-scriptural texts, and personal writings are not permitted during the Liturgy of the Word at a Catholic funeral Mass. Poems like "Do Not Stand at My Grave and Weep" or "Remember Me" — however beloved — belong at the wake vigil, at the graveside, or at the reception afterwards. Many parishes will suggest including secular readings during the reception of the remains the evening before, which has a less rigid liturgical structure.

If there is a "words of appreciation" (eulogy) permitted by the parish, it takes place at the beginning or end of the Mass, not during the Liturgy of the Word. Rules vary between parishes — some allow it, others do not. Always check with the priest in advance.

Making the Choice Easier

The Catholic Funeral Ireland guide includes the full list of approved readings with commentary on when each is most appropriate, plus a step-by-step walkthrough of how to coordinate with the parish office.