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Illinois Diocese Restricts Eulogies and Church Visitation Before Funerals
Developing
In Short: The Diocese of Springfield in Illinois has announced new funeral practices, banning eulogies during Mass and restricting church visitations, effective July 1.
The Diocese of Springfield in Illinois has announced new funeral practices, banning eulogies during Mass and restricting church visitations, effective July 1, according to OSV News. Bishop Joseph Paprocki, a canon lawyer, made the announcement in a video and statement, citing the practice as an anomaly that has emerged over the past few years.
Paprocki explained that the Order of Christians Funerals does not permit eulogies but allows for a remembrance of the deceased. He said that too often, inappropriate remarks are made during eulogies, leading to the new restrictions.
Visitation in the church just before the liturgy will no longer be permitted, but family and friends are encouraged to gather at the funeral home for prayers before the funeral Mass. The diocese has also put in place a procedure for words of remembrance to be submitted to the pastor at least three days in advance, to be read by the priest or deacon during the funeral rites.
Paprocki stated, 'This does not mean that family and friends are precluded from gathering together and having prayers at the funeral home ahead of the funeral Mass.' The changes are aimed at ensuring that funeral Masses remain focused and appropriate, according to OSV News.
What's still developing
- Nothing material beyond the confirmed record.
Sources
- OSV Newslink