A Funeral Mass is followed by committal at the graveside, where the grave is blessed and prayers are offered. Burial is traditional; cremation is permitted, with ashes interred rather than scattered.

The headstone

Monuments commonly bear a cross and Christian imagery, in upright monumental or lawn form; there is no fixed unveiling timing.

Visiting

Flowers and candles are common; families visit on anniversaries and All Souls' Day (2 November), praying for the deceased.

Inscriptions

Usually English, often 'In Loving Memory' or 'Rest in Peace', frequently with a cross.

Monuments & memorials

Crosses and religious statuary (Sacred Heart, Our Lady) in granite or marble.

New headstone or monument

A new memorial in the styles and materials of the community.

Additional inscriptions

Adding a name to a family grave, or completing an existing inscription.

Renovation & restoration

Repairing, resetting or restoring an older or weathered grave.

Cleaning

Cleaning and freshening a headstone that has aged over the years.

Frequently asked

What is a Catholic burial?

Catholic burial is rooted in belief in the resurrection, treating the body with reverence and commending the deceased to God.

What are Catholic visiting customs?

Flowers and candles are common; families visit on anniversaries and All Souls' Day (2 November), praying for the deceased.

Which Sydney cemeteries have Catholic sections?

Eastern Suburbs Memorial Park, Field of Mars Cemetery, Frenchs Forest Bushland Cemetery, Kemps Creek Memorial Park, Liverpool Cemetery, Macarthur Memorial Park, Macquarie Park Cemetery and Crematorium, North Rocks Catholic Cemetery, Rookwood Catholic Cemetery, Rookwood Cemetery, Woronora Memorial Park.