The funeral Mass is held not only to express grief over the passing of a loved one, but to also worship Jesus’ victory over death through the Resurrection. A Christian funeral is not considered a sacrament because the deceased has “passed” beyond sacramental economy; however, the celebration is just as sacred and liturgical in nature. The liturgy of the Word during a funeral mass is extremely important because it presents an opportunity for evangelization, as many people who knew the deceased many not be part of the faithful community.
“I look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come.” –Niceno-Constantinopolitan Creed