If you are reading this, you probably have experienced a death in your family or that of a close friend. The family of your parish church extends to you and your family our deepest condolences. The Funeral Mass of Christian Burial is a special liturgy that you may never have had to prepare for personally. In the midst of your sorrow and grief, you may find it a wonderful source of solace to spend this time with Sacred Scripture and take the opportunity to choose those passages which are most meaningful to you personally for inclusion in the liturgy.
To assist you, Saint Anthony's Church has put together a short Funeral Book in PDF form for you to download and use. It provides information on funeral Masses, suggestions for readings and Gospel readings, prayers to assist you at this time, as well as suggestions and a helpful organizing form for family and friends who whish to participate in the Mass.
This short booklet will help you involve members of your family, friends or associates in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, offering prayers for the repose of the soul of your loved one and to ease your own grief. The priest, deacon or funeral director may also say prayers at the wake and/or cemetery. This may be an appropriate time for a member of the family to read a favorite verse from scripture, a poem or a letter that reflects your loved one’s life.
Your parish can also help you now or afterwards with Mass Cards, Special Intentions or Holy Souls Remembrances. Your funeral director sometimes can also provide Mass Cards.
If you need any help please contact the parish office.