A Catholic funeral is a liturgical celebration that honours the deceased and offers solace and hope to the living. It expresses the paschal character of Christian death, recognizing the deceased's passage into eternal life through Christ's resurrection. The Church earnestly recommends burial but permits cremation, unless chosen for reasons contrary to Christian doctrine. In the funeral rites, the Church prays for the deceased and offers comfort to the bereaved, emphasizing the hope of resurrection and eternal life.