Funerals

MASSES FOR THE DEAD

From the very beginning, the Church has honoured the memory of the dead and offered prayers for them, above all, the Eucharistic sacrifice, so that, purified, they may have the beatific vision of God. (see Cathechism of the Catholic Church, no. 1032). Indeed, St. Ambrose (d.397) preached: “We have loved them during life; let us not abandon them in death, until we have conducted them by our prayers into the house of the Lord.”

It remains the custom of Catholics, on the occasion of death, to request that a Mass be offered for the deceased. Although there is no cost for such a request, the usual offering made to the parish in Hamilton Diocese is $10. The presentation of a Mass card to the bereaved is one of the most beautiful expressions of sympathy we can offer to those who mourn. It is also a powerful expression of oru faith in the Lord’s promise of eternal life and a loving gift to the faithful departed. A Mass for the deceased may be requested at any time and is a fitting way to remember our brothers and sisters who have gone before us on the anniversary of their death and on other special occasions.

A CATHOLIC FUNERAL

Did you know that it is our tradition to celebrate the funeral liturgy for Catholics in the church? It is our custom to celebrate the Funeral Mass in the church with the body present. When it is not possible to have the body present, the cremated remains may be brought to the church.

Sometimes family members who are not Catholic or who have abandoned the practice of their faith feel uncomfortable celebrating a funeral Mass in the church on behalf of the deceased. In such circumstances it may be appropriate to celebrate a Liturgy of the Word (without Communion) in the church. A funeral liturgy for a member of our church at a local funeral home is strongly discouraged.

It is important that you (as a practising Catholic) make this information, as well as your personal wishes, known to your family members and those who will be responsible for making your funeral arrangements. It is also recommended that you include these wishes in your will. (Source: Liturgy Office, Diocese of Hamilton; liturgy@hamiltondiocese.com)

General Information

When a death occurs in your family, call the parish office immediately. Our pastor will assist you in making the liturgical arrangements. If you are unable to speak to someone personally, please leave a message as our voice mail is retrieved frequently. The website address of The Catholic Cemeteries is www.thecatholiccemeteries.ca.

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