One of the greatest acts of charity is to pray for the living and the dead. The greatest and most powerful prayer we have is the Mass, since the fruits of the Mass are the very fruits of Jesus' redemption. For that reason, all are encouraged to have Mass offered for loved ones who have died, or even for the living who have some need. This is an ancient Catholic practice, and all are encouraged to take it up.
Universal Church discipline as contained in the Code of Canon Law (canons 945-958) of the 1983 Code of Canon Law strictly regulates the offerings made for the celebration of Mass. The Mass intention(s) should be promptly and accurately recorded in the parish record for Mass Intentions (Canon 955 §4 and Canon 958 §1). If there is a special restriction on the intention, such as that the Mass must be offered at the parish, then a notation of this restriction must be listed in the record. Records should be stored in a fire-resistant cabinet or safe.