If you are reading this information during a time of loss, please accept our condolences and know that we will do all that we can to help you through this difficult time with a spirit of love and compassion as well as trust in the Lord’s goodness and mercy.

If a loved one has died, please call Fr. Charlie Jordan at the Parish Office to make arrangements for the funeral. Please do not finalize arrangements at the funeral home and cemetery without first speaking with Fr. Charlie. Often the people at the funeral home will contact Fr. Charlie as well, to confirm timing, etc.

Alternate Procedure:
Service at Funeral Home only

Some families, especially if they have not been connected to the church in recent years, may not wish to have anything at the Church.

In this case Fr. Charlie can do a “funeral service” in the funeral home.

Costs

The “normal” procedure is that the funeral home will include in their fees a portion ($150) to cover costs to the parish. The organist fees are separate.  They will forward this cheque to the parish, and the parish will forward the organist’s portion to her/him.  If you prefer, you can make arrangements to offer this “fee” directly to the parish.

Reception for Family and Friends

Many families will hold a reception with lunch or finger foods after the religious events have taken place. Our Blessed Sacrament Parish Hall can be available for this purpose.

We have volunteers looking after preparing the locale and serving the food and cleaning up. They will provide coffee and tea. The food is usually brought in by a caterer (our volunteers can help set this up.)

We ask for a $150 donation for the use of the hall for this reception.

Planning the Funeral Liturgy with Family Members

Fr. Charlie will offer the opportunity for some of the family to “sit down” with him to make decisions about the arrangements and Liturgy.

The funeral liturgy is one of the most beautiful and meaningful celebrations of the Church.  Your family has the option of personalizing the Liturgy by choosing the Scripture readings (which may be read by family members or friends) and by requesting specific hymns. Music is provided by one of our organists, working with our volunteer “Resurrection Choir”.

A “eulogy” is not allowed during this celebration in the Church, as the focus is on our faith in Jesus Christ and the heavenly Father. Fr. Charlie, however, will personalize the homily appropriately. When you meet with Fr. Charlie in making the arrangements, please be ready to talk about your  deceased family member with him.