Funeral Rites of Tra Co Catholics in Mong Cai City, Quang Ninh Province

Abstract

Each ethnic and religious community has a different concept of life and death,
and funeral rituals always hold meaning and an essential position in the life cycle. This article
presents funeral rituals with strong religious elements associated with liturgical rites prescribed
by Catholic canon law through a specific case in Tra Co parish, Mong Cai city, Quang Ninh
province. The funeral rites of Catholics are not as somber and wailing as those of non-Catholics.
Instead, there are prayers, hoping that the soul of the deceased will soon see the face of God.
Catholic funerals are performed with funeral rites and a funeral mass, with the participation of
the Catholic community during vigils and prayers both during and after the funeral.