Exception to the Ordinary Form for
Christian Funerals

While the ordinary form for Christian Funerals is preferred, there are some exceptions. Exceptions for a Christian Funeral without the Vigil, the Mass, or Committal may be made after consultation with the parish. Please call 427-0230.

Cremation

There are occasions when the body may not be present at the time of the Christian Funeral or when a body is cremated and the remains are brought to the church. While the exception for cremation is possible, family members are encouraged to celebrate a Christian Funeral with the Body Present. Please let us know what you would prefer by calling the parish office at 427-0230.

How to Recite the Rosary (click here to download)

Eulogy

Recognizing that the reception after the funeral, or gatherings prior to the funeral, may be times to share personal stories about the deceased, a eulogy is designed to offer words that would best describe the loved one as a Christian disciple or child of God. The person preparing a eulogy should reflect on:

- How the deceased lived a Christian life (e.g., Attended Sunday Mass, assisted in Church groups or ministries, inspired others to follow the Lord, etc), or
- How the deceased was a servant of God through charitable works and love for family and neighbor, or
- How the deceased was a reflection of Christ as a reconciler, a giver, a just person, a healer of souls, or
- (If the deceased suffered), how he/she carried the cross in the footsteps of Jesus.

A Eulogy should be no more than 5 minutes long. Very often, attendants at the funeral (including the mortuary personnel, clergy, and other guests) are committed to events immediately following the service. In addition, the eulogist should write the thoughts down prior to the Funeral Service in order to keep his/her thoughts collected at such an emotional time.

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