"At the death of a Christian, whose life of faith was begun in the waters of Baptism and strengthened at the Eucharistic table, the Church intercedes on behalf of the deceased because of its confident belief that death is not the end, nor does it break the bonds forged in life. The Church also ministers to the sorrowing and consoles them in the funeral rites with the comforting Word of God and the Sacrament of the Eucharist."
Old Testament Readings
In every celebration for the dead, the Church attaches great importance to the reading of the Word of God. The readings proclaim to the assembly the Paschal Mystery, teach remembrance of the dead, convey the hope of being gathered together again in God's kingdom, and encourage the witness of Christian life. Above all, the readings tell of God's designs for a world in which suffering and death will relinquish their hold on all whom God has called his own. A careful selection and use of readings from Scripture for the funeral rites will provide the family with an opportunity to hear God speak to them in their needs, sorrows, fears, and hopes.
New Testament Readings
The selection of passages from the Bible is an important part of planning a funeral ceremony, as we want to turn to God's Word for wisdom and comfort in this time of loss. The Word of God is at the heart of our Christian celebration of faith in this funeral rite in anticipation of the resurrection of the body.
Prayer of The Faithful
Because of our belief not only in the immortality of the soul, but also in the resurrection of the body, the Church professes hope in the face of death, and acts with charity in the funeral rites. The Church provides a number of prayers for the faithful to offer, both to accompany the dying of a loved one and to strengthen our faith upon their death. Through private prayer and public funeral rites, we strengthen our faith and hope, comfort those who mourn, and bury the bodily remains of the deceased with care befitting what was the Temple of the Holy Spirit.
Music Selection
If you have questions, please contact our Bereavement Ministry Coordinator. A minimum of four songs are needed in our celebration: An Entrance Processional song, an Offertory Song, a Communion Song and a Recessional Song.
"In Memory Of" Donations can be made electronically by clicking on the link below or the QR Code
https://tinyurl.com/SRB-Bereavement
