Funerals

There are 3 parts of the Catholic Funeral Rite.

"At the vigil, the Christian community keeps watch with the family in prayer to the God of mercy and finds strength in Christ's presence" (Order of Christian Funerals, no. 56). This would be considered a wake or visitation, that would normally take place at a funeral home. Sacred Scriptures and reflection would be used, this is something the funeral director and pastor will aid in planning.

The funeral liturgy is a time the Church gathers loved ones of the deceased to praise and thank God for Christ victory over sin and death, to commend the deceased to God's tender mercy and compassion. Family asks to seek strength in the proclamation of the Paschal Mystery. The funeral liturgy is an act of worship, and not merely an expression of grief.

Rite of Committal or the burial is normally done at the final resting place of the deceased. The community expresses home that with this final resting place and the people who have passed before us will guide the diseased awaits the glory of resurrection. The deceased passed with Farewell prayers in to the arms of Christ where faith is no longer needed.

To have St. Luke participate in the funeral rite please contact the funeral home you are working with. The funeral home will contact us and begin the planning process.