Funerals at the Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
The Order of Christian Funerals teaches that a funeral lets the Christian community grieve while holding onto hope in Christ's death and resurrection.
Funeral Planning
Whether you are preparing your own wishes for the future or arranging a liturgy for a loved one who has just passed, the Cathedral Basilica parish community is here to support and guide you through the process.
At times, a Catholic dies before sharing their wishes for a funeral and burial with family or friends. Without this information, a person might be buried without a Catholic funeral or before the parish even learns of the death.
You can spare your loved ones from guessing during a time of grief by sharing your wishes now. Prayerfully consider the options in our planning workbook to document your preferences for readings, music, and the Funeral Rites of the Catholic Church. Give copies of your recorded wishes to your family, friends, and the parish so there is a clear record of what you want.
A Cathedral Basilica representative will gladly meet with you and any family members in advance to explain the rites and help you select appropriate Scripture readings, prayers, and music.
If you have just lost a family member, please accept our heartfelt condolences. We are here to help you navigate these arrangements with care and support.
First, call the parish office as soon as possible so we can begin coordinating with your family and your chosen funeral home. Look for any written instructions or a completed planning workbook your loved one may have left behind.
Whether your loved one left specific instructions or not, a Cathedral Basilica representative will gladly meet with you and any family members to explain the rites and the choices available to you.
Schedule a Planning Meeting
To set up a planning meeting for yourself in advance or for a family member who has passed, please call the Cathedral Basilica main office at 314-373-8202.
Funeral Planning Resources
The Funeral Rites of the Catholic Church include three parts:
Vigil (Wake)
Funeral Liturgy
Rite of Committal (Burial or Interment)
The Funeral Liturgy readings may be chosen from the following:
1st Reading Outside Easter Season
1st Reading in Easter Season
2nd Reading
Gospel Reading
Universal Prayers