Are we required by the Church to attend funerals

QUESTION?

Are we required by the Church to attend funerals of people we no longer had  communication with or relationship, say an ex spouse . I been invited to funerals I really do not feel it's necessary to attend, however I always pray for their soul.

ANSWER!

We are not required by the Church to attend any funerals. Yes, keep praying for the souls of those departed, especially anyone we had been estranged from. That being said, it is a corporal work of mercy to bury the dead and it is a spiritual work of mercy to pray for the living and the dead. We are required by love to do the Spiritual and Corporal works of mercy. We do these in accord with the duties of our state in life. 

 "May God bless you and keep you. May His face shine on you and be gracious to you. May He look on you kindly and give you peace" (Num 6:24-26).

God love you,

Responded by: Mary Barber, Virgin Most Powerful Radio Talk Show Host "Bible with the Barbers"