Funeral Planning
The loss of a loved one is a difficult and painful time. At Saint Bonaventure, we are here to support you through prayer and pastoral care. When a loved one dies, family members meet with the clergy and the director of music & liturgy to plan the funeral Mass or service. They will gently guide family members to select fitting scripture readings and music. Family members offer insights into the life of the deceased, and these recollections may be incorporated into the homily.
Here are the resources we will use in the planning process:
The loss of a loved one is a difficult and painful time. At Saint Bonaventure, we are here to support you through prayer and pastoral care. When a loved one dies, family members meet with the clergy and the director of music & liturgy to plan the funeral Mass or service. They will gently guide family members to select fitting scripture readings and music. Family members offer insights into the life of the deceased, and these recollections may be incorporated into the homily.
Here are the resources we will use in the planning process:
Opportunities for family members to participate in the funeral Mass or service
- Family members may put a white pall on the casket at the church doors.
- The family may select special musicians. Our Resurrection Choir will support the assembly with musical worship.
- Readers proclaim the Old and New Testament readings and the Prayer of the Faithful.
- At a Mass, gift bearers bring bread and wine to the priest at the beginning of the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Generally, two people present the gifts at the altar; however, sometimes a whole family (including children) will serve as gift bearers.
- If commissioned as Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion, family members may assist with the distribution of Holy Communion.
Funeral Hospitality
Our Funeral Hospitality Ministry brings forth the caring presence of the community by serving a meal for family and friends following the funeral liturgy of a loved one. During funeral planning, family members arrive at an estimated number of guests for the meal. The meal is prepared and served by parishioners with sandwiches, au gratin potatoes, beans, lettuce salad, and fruit salad for a nominal donation. Bars are generously donated by parishioners. After the meal, the Funeral Hospitality volunteers clean up and pack any leftovers for the family to take.
Our Funeral Hospitality Ministry brings forth the caring presence of the community by serving a meal for family and friends following the funeral liturgy of a loved one. During funeral planning, family members arrive at an estimated number of guests for the meal. The meal is prepared and served by parishioners with sandwiches, au gratin potatoes, beans, lettuce salad, and fruit salad for a nominal donation. Bars are generously donated by parishioners. After the meal, the Funeral Hospitality volunteers clean up and pack any leftovers for the family to take.