Funerals
Our parish brings a dimension of faith and caring at the time of death - one of life's most difficult times. Whether a parish priest or a pastoral associate meets with you, he or she represents the whole parish., bringing the support and sympathy of the community.
The Funeral Rite
Every baptized Catholic has the right to the Funeral Rite of the Church. Family and friends have the need to express both gratitude and thanksgiving to God for the gift of life shared through their loved one. The Funeral Rite is normally celebrated with Wake, Funeral Mass, and Burial. In our tradition, the body of the deceased is brought to the church because one's spiritual journey began there at Baptism. The body is normally buried as a sign of reverence and an expression of belief in the resurrection. Cremation is an exception to the traditional practice. When cremation is chosen, it takes place after the Funeral Mass because that Mass presumes the presence of the body.Although the wishes of the deceased need to be weighed and evaluated, remember that funerals are for the living. To make decisions about one's own funeral may create problems for a grieving family. Someone designated by the family should meet with the parish priest to make decisions regarding the Funeral Rite. The family should consult with a priest before making arrangements with a funeral home.
When a deceased family member did not identify with a church or religious community or simply was not baptized, the support and services of the parish are still there. Because a funeral is for the living, it is always possible to provide a dignified service.
Burial Place
The Parish cemetery is located on Bent Avenue off West Plain Street in Cochituate Village and is available to all. If your family needs a burial place, we will gladly explore that possibility.Remembrances
Our parish encourages any of the following expressions:Flowers
Think seriously of suggesting to friends and family members that flowers be given at a later time to remember the deceased. For example, they might be given to decorate the church on a not-too-distant weekend. This can be arranged at the rectory and through a florist in cooperation with the parish.
Gifts
Rather than flowers, some prefer to give a gift in memory of the deceased. There are many good and needy causes. You may wish to contribute to the Church Renovation Fund or the Parish Scholarship Fund.
Receptions
Parishioners may request to use the Parish Center for a reception for family and friends following the burial. The Christian Service Committee provides help with serving refreshments.
