Church of St. Mary
on Broadway
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Planning a Funeral
Death is a natural part of life. We know how painful losing a loved one can be. As Christians, we believe that the ties of friendship and affection, which knit us together as one throughout our lives, do not unravel with death. The Franciscan community at the Church of St. Mary assures you that you are not alone in your mourning. Our thoughts, prayers and moral support are with you.
Funeral arrangements are initiated by the family’s designated funeral home. The funeral director will contact the Parish Ministry Office to notify us of a death and identify the family contact person. One of the Ministers of Care or a friar-priest will schedule a meeting with the family to plan the funeral liturgy.
Some things to consider before the meeting
- Does the family wish to place the pall on the casket? If so, who will?
- Does the family wish to place a Christian symbol on the casket? If so, what will it be? Cross/Crucifix, Bible, Rosary, Single Rose?
- Does the family wish to have a family member or friend do a reading? If the family decides not to have readers, lectors will be provided. The family will be asked to select one reading from each of the following: Old Testament, New Testament.
- The family selects the Gospel passage which is read by the presider.
- The family reviews the Prayer of the Faithful and may make minor changes, if desired. Does the family wish to have a family member or friend read the Prayer of the Faithful? If so, who?
- Does the family wish to have family members or friends bring up the gifts at the Offertory?
- Does the family wish to have a family member or friend speak before the Final Commendation? One person may talk on behalf of the family.
Each year, on the Feast of All Souls, November 2nd, we celebrate a special Mass of Remembrance for our loved ones, especially those we have lost in the last year. All families who have had a funeral for a deceased member will be invited to attend.