Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted (Matthew 5:4)
Honoring the Life of a Loved One
The loss of a loved one brings deep grief, yet also a profound hope. While they no longer walk with us on this earth, as people of faith, we look forward to the day we will join them in the joy of God’s Kingdom.
The Church encourages family and friends to participate in planning funeral celebrations. Your input helps personalize the funeral Mass, making the liturgy more meaningful for all who gather to remember and pray.
For guidance, click the button below to download our Funeral Guidelines PDF and learn how to create a fitting and heartfelt celebration.
For assistance, please call the Parish Office
The Arimathean Ministry
The Arimathean Ministry, named after Joseph of Arimathea, who provided a tomb for Jesus after his crucifixion, focuses on providing support to families during funeral. Arimatheans offer comfort, hospitality, and practical assistance during these difficult times.
Upcoming Funerals
Prayers for Those Who have Recently Departed
Eternal Rest
A simple, beloved prayer often used after someone has passed:
“Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord,
and let perpetual light shine upon them.
May they rest in peace. Amen.”
Prayer for the Deceased
“O God, who has commanded us to honor our parents,
have mercy on the souls of my father and mother
and all my loved ones who have passed.
Forgive their sins,
and grant that I may see them again
in the joy of everlasting light.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.”
Prayer for a Loved One Who Has Died
“Into your hands, O Lord,
we humbly entrust our brother/sister.
In this life you embraced them with your tender love;
deliver them now from every evil
and bid them enter eternal rest.
The old order has passed away:
welcome them into paradise,
where there will be no sorrow, no weeping, nor pain,
but fullness of peace and joy
with your Son and the Holy Spirit
forever and ever. Amen.”
Prayers from the Funeral Liturgy
Saints of God, Come to Their Aid
“Saints of God, come to their aid!
Come to meet them, angels of the Lord!
Receive their soul and present them to God the Most High.”
Prayer of Commendation
“May the angels lead you into paradise;
may the martyrs come to welcome you
and take you to the holy city,
the new and eternal Jerusalem.”
Prayers for the Family of the Deceased
Prayer for Those Who Mourn
“Lord,
be close to your servants who mourn
and dry their tears.
Strengthen their faith,
lighten their hearts,
and help them to trust in your loving plan.
Grant that we may one day be united
with our loved one in the joys of your kingdom.
Through Christ our Lord. Amen.”
A Rosary Offering for the Deceased
You can also pray the Rosary with the intention:
“For the repose of the soul of ___ and for comfort for their family.”
(Traditionally, after each decade, you may add:
“Eternal rest grant unto them…”)
Cremation
Diocesan Norms