Funerals

Planning a Loved One's Funeral

St. Joseph Parish is eager to assist the family at the difficult time of the loss of a loved one. Our Consolation Ministry is available to help with the planning, and is present at the Funeral Mass to guide the family during the liturgy. Our parish community recognizes the right of every Catholic to have a Funeral Mass. We do our best, as well, to send a representative from the parish to pray with the family and guests at the funeral home, usually on the afternoon before the Funeral Mass. The funeral home will contact St. Josephs with the arrangements the family has decided upon.

Many families wish to plan the funeral liturgy for their loved one. When they make the arrangements with the local funeral director, the materials for planning are given them at that time, and/ or a member of the Consolation Ministry will contact the family. Included in these materials are suggested hymns to be sung along with the readings during the Mass. During the Funeral Mass the family can choose the first and second readings that are proclaimed during the Liturgy of the Word. Should a family member or friend who is Catholic feel comfortable in doing one of the readings, they are encouraged to do so.

The information for planning is available for the family to print out. The forms are in the lower right hand corner of this page under documents.