The Catholic funeral rite is divided into several parts, each with its own purpose: the Vigil Service (Wake), the Funeral Liturgy and the Rite of Committal (Burial or Interment).

The Church intercedes on behalf of the deceased because of her confident belief that death is not the end, nor does it break the bonds forged in life.

The Church also ministers to the sorrowing and consoles them in the funeral rites with the comforting Word of God and the Sacrament of the Eucharist.