Funerals

Life is changed, not ended


If the spirit of God, who raised Jesus from death, lives in you, then he who raised Christ from death will also give life to your mortal bodies by the presence of his spirit in you. (Romans 8:11)


Steps to planning a loved one's funeral:

  1. Call a funeral home of your choice.  The funeral home will reach out to the church with the details of your ceremony.
  2. Schedule a time to speak with our Priest.  He will help you with any questions you may have along they way and help make sure your loved one's day goes as planned.
  3. Choose readings and music.  Below you will find a solid list of readings.  You will hear from Leo Schloss in regards to your music selections.



We provide this information to help you understand the norms for a Mass of Christian Burial and the practices that that are customary at our parish.


Catholics believe that at death “Life is changed, not ended.” Death is a passage to a new and fuller life, and ultimately to resurrection and eternal union with God.


When we are baptized we believe that our bodies are marked with the seal of the Holy Trinity. Since we are temples of the Holy Spirit we respect and honor the bodies of the dead and their places of rest.


The customs associated with the preparation of the body of the deceased are always marked with dignity and reverence and never with the despair of those who have no hope. Therefore, in the presence of the deceased, we turn to prayer. In this time of sorrow it is through prayer that we receive the necessary grace and consoling assurances of our faith.


For the final disposition of the body, it is the ancient Christian custom to bury or entomb the bodies of the dead in a consecrated and holy place.


Although death brings a deep sense of sadness and loss, faith provides solace and strength. It is a time when we encounter the things of God and our belief in Him in a new way. It is a time for us to support and console one another—especially in our belief in the gift of eternal life. So, when as Christians we encounter death, we are drawn to prayer—to pray for those who have died and to pray for those who have experienced the loss of a loved one.


The Church emphasizes life in the funeral liturgy referred to as the Mass of Christian burial. The resurrection is the theme and the readings, hymns, and prayers reflect the overall tone of expectant joy.


Readings

The readings from the Sacred Scriptures proclaim the Paschal mystery, teach remembrance of the dead, convey the hope of being gathered together again in God's kingdom, and encourage the witness of Christian life. The readings tell of God's design for a world in which suffering and death will relinquish their hold on all whom God has called his own.

Usually there are three readings during the Funeral Mass or Service. One from the Old Testament, a second from the New Testament epistles, and a third from the Gospels proclaimed by the Deacon or Priest. 

Clicking on the Button below, This will take you to a webpage with the readings.


Click here for Readings
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