| |
Home > Ministries > Funerals
It is our privilege to help you at this difficult yet sacred time.
We recognize that when a loved one is in the last stages of life or has died, the passing is often accompanied by profound sorrow and distress. At the same time, the passing of a loved one can be a time of deeper connection with Christ who takes us beyond death to eternal life. We hope the following Q & A provides you the basic information you need to begin making funeral plans and helps you better understand what happens in Catholic funerals.
Q&A: FUNERALS AT ST. PAUL'S
Show all Q&A answers | Hide all Q&A answers
Where do I begin when my loved one dies?
Depending on your needs, you may either call the parish directly or ask the funeral director to call for you. Both the parish representative and the funeral director will accompany you through the steps to prepare a funeral. A funeral usually takes a few days to plan and organize. The time and type of service will depend on family needs, people involved, travel arrangements, church schedules and other factors. If you call the parish office at (310) 474-1527, please tell the receptionist that you are calling to begin the process of planning a funeral. The receptionist will connect you with a parish representative, priest or pastoral associate who will be there to assist you.
Is there just one type of funeral?
No. There are several different types of Catholic Funeral Services. You and the parish representative will choose the funeral that best serves you and your family's needs together. A traditional Catholic funeral has three main parts.
The WAKE is a service that can precede the funeral. Held at a convenient place, it is a time for gathering loved ones, sharing memories and comfort, possibly even viewing the body and offering prayer (using scripture or the rosary). It is the perfect time for eulogies and sharing stories about the deceased.
The FUNERAL. The Mass of the Resurrection is usually celebrated for the family, community and deceased. It can be celebrated with the body, with cremated remains, or as a memorial mass without the body. Other options, like a simple scripture service may also be arranged
The BURIAL usually immediately follows the funeral mass. Whether with body or ashes, a service is held at the site of burial, with prayers, blessings and final farewells.
How do I choose what readings will be offered during the service?
Working with the parish representative, you will have the opportunity to select readings and other options for the funeral based on your family's needs and desires to be involved. Don't worry; we will help you with everything from choosing ministers to assembling a simple liturgy aid reflecting the beauty and dignity of this celebration for your loved one.
What about Music?
The Music will be prepared with our director of music, who joins us to combine your personal choices with the tapestry of the Catholic Church's rich musical tradition.
What about the Eulogies?
Normally, there are only two eulogies at the funeral, whether it is a Mass or a Service. They need to be written out and no longer than two minutes each. These guidelines are to help both the speaker and all those in attendance. Wakes and receptions are ideal times for eulogies, often inspiring many to share stories and remembrances of the loved in a more informal setting and when everyone is able to participate.
What does it cost to have a funeral at St. Paul's?
A suggested donation to St. Paul the Apostle for a funeral is $250 (and is sometimes included in the funeral director's fees). Where this donation is an undue burden on the family, it is omitted. An stipend is also paid to each musician.
Whom do I contact if I have other questions or to begin planning a funeral?
Please call the parish office at (310) 474-1527 and tell the receptionist that you are calling to begin the process of planning a funeral. The receptionist will connect you with a parish representative, priest or pastoral associate who will be there to assist you.
In closing... about the Risen Christ.
Central to the Catholic view of death is the experience of Jesus Christ, who died upon the cross to give us eternal life. When those we love die, we believe that Christ welcomes them to eternal life. We grieve their loss, but are comforted knowing they are at peace with God. In the funeral our prayers connect us to the central mystery of Christ. In Christ's death and resurrection we are saved and brought to eternal life. We see in the death of our loved ones the love of Christ that takes them beyond the veil of death and keeps us connected to them (as well as one another) in the very love that Christ gives us.
|
|
