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Funeral Ministry
The Church wishes to accompany those who are grieving and to show the Light of Jesus Christ Risen to those whose hearts are broken. The parish embraces those who are mourning and gives direction for ceremonies to thank God for the deceased’s life and to hold family and friends close in prayer.
The Funeral Ritual of the Catholic Church is in three steps and all three steps should be taken. The purpose of the Funeral Ritual is to praise Almighty God for Jesus Christ’s resurrection from death and His promise of eternal life. The full and active focus of the Funeral Ritual is on Almighty God while offering the opportunity through Scripture, song and prayer to honor the memory of the deceased and to thank God for their life on earth.
Taken together, the three steps of the Funeral Ritual offer praise of God and consolation for the family and friends.
Step One: The Vigil
The Vigil usually occurs in the funeral home toward the end of the visiting hours. It is a brief Liturgy of the Word led by a priest or deacon. It includes two Scripture Readings, a brief sermon or eulogies, prayers of the faithful, Lord’s Prayer and blessing. Eulogies are welcome at the Vigil.Step Two: The Mass of Christian Burial
The purpose of Mass is to praise and thank Almighty God from Whom all blessings flow. The focus of the Mass is on the life-giving death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Family and friends are welcome as readers and gift bearers. The sermon will incorporate thanks to God and memories of the deceased. Eulogies occur at the Vigil but not during the Mass.Step Three: The Burial
This is a brief Liturgy of the Word led by a priest or deacon over the grave
Step Four: The Repass
An opportunity for family and friends to gather after the burial or reposing of the cremains to share in a meal to celebrate the life of the loved one. -
Ministry
Offering worship, praying for the deceased, and consoling the family are a primary ministry and responsibility of the Christian community. Therefore, members of our parish should be actively encouraged and trained to take part in this ministry traditionally called a work of mercy.”
Whenever possible, the family is actively involved in planning and encouraged to take liturgical roles. People should also be encouraged to look ahead and to plan for their own funerals as a service to their families.
Ministry to the family should not be confined to the funeral rites or end with the liturgical ministry. It is important that parish ministers visit the bereaved.” Please contact our Parish Office at 757-481-5702 if you are in need of a priest or chaplain.
If you would like to plan ahead for a funeral or if you would like to be part of our ‘Funeral Liturgy Team’ contact the church office.
(Excerpts taken from Diocese of Richmond Office of Worship)
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