Funeral Rites Information
Our sympathy, prayers, and community support are with you at this time. Thank you for considering St. Margaret Mary to help plan your loved one’s or your own funeral preparation needs. The loss of a family member or friend is a very difficult time for those left behind who are presented with many different choices. We put this guide together in order to assist you in your understanding and planning the Funeral Rites. We hope this booklet will make your planning a little easier.
In this guide you will find an overview of the rites, steps, and references. We invite you to read this guide in order to help you make your choices and complete the forms at the end. Please bring them with you to the meeting with our funeral coordinator, who is here to assist you. They are available to answer any questions you may have regarding the Church guidelines for Funeral Rites.
There are several times when the parish community is involved with you.
- Wake Prayer Group: A group of parishioners will meet you at the funeral home on the day before the funeral to conduct a prayer service, led by a Deacon or a Leader of Prayer. This is normally held at 4:00 p.m. or 7:00 p.m
- Liturgy Planning: The Director of Worship/Music will contact the family members (by telephone or meet in person, if desired) to discuss the liturgy itself. Included in this booklet are suggested readings and music selections. Other selections are welcome, if appropriate, and may be discussed with the Director of Liturgy/Music or Parish Staff Representative. Family members and friends are invited to share in the various liturgical ministries at Mass. However, Adult Funeral Servers from the parish community will be present and could minister as Servers, Lectors, Communion Ministers, or assist in any way possible, as needed.
- Bereavement Committee: In most circumstances, someone from the parish will contact a family member about preparing a meal for the immediate family which is to be held after the burial rite. This affords family members an opportunity to be together, share some food and memories, and to experience the care and concern of the parish community. Depending on availability, the parish hospitality room, across from the parish offices, may be available for your family’s use. There is no charge for this.
The Funeral Mass is the central liturgical celebration for the deceased. The Christian community reaffirms in sign and symbol, word and gesture that through baptism we share in Christ’s death and resurrection, and we look forward to the day when we will be raised up and united in God’s kingdom of light and peace.
Parish Office, 502-426-1588
Director of Liturgy & Music, Dr. Holly Smith-Brooks Extension 125
Pastoral Care Coordinator, Denise Ruiz Extension 126