Who should direct the placement of a pall on the casket during a funeral service?

The placement of a pall on the casket during a funeral service is often directed by the clergy person. This practice is rooted in the role that clergy play during a funeral. They not only lead the service but also provide spiritual guidance and comfort to the family and attendees. The pall itself symbolizes the deceased's baptism and the equality of all individuals before God, which reinforces the clergy's significance in conveying the spiritual message throughout the service.

While a funeral director certainly manages many aspects of the service and is trained in ensuring everything runs smoothly, the act of directing the pall's placement is more closely aligned with the spiritual and ceremonial aspects typically overseen by the clergy.

Family members may wish to participate or be involved in placing the pall as a personal gesture, but the formal direction is generally less appropriate, as it could lead to confusion about roles during the solemn occasion. A mausoleum manager typically would not be involved in a traditional funeral service where a pall is used, as their responsibilities are more focused on the maintenance and management of the mausoleum rather than the ceremonial aspects of a funeral. Thus, the clergy's role is central to the tradition and significance of placing the pall on the casket.