Catholic Funerals at St. Cecilia:

"At the death of a Christian, whose life of faith was begun in the waters of Baptism and strengthened at the Eucharistic table, the Church intercedes on behalf of the deceased because of its confident belief that death is not the end, nor does it break the bonds forged in life. The Church also ministers to the sorrowing and consoles them in the funeral rites with the comforting Word of God and the Sacrament of the Eucharist." - (Order of Christian Funerals)

Experiencing the death of a loved one can be difficult.  We want you to know that we at St. Cecilia are here to mourn with you, to appreciate that great gift of life that God gave your loved one, to lift them up to the mercy and love of Jesus, and to pray with you and be with you.  We will do what we can to help family members and friends to experience the love of God and His Church.  This guide is to offer some basic information, but please call the parish office for details, arrangements, and availability. We also advise that you contact us before the funeral parlor so that you can save duplication of services and better plan knowing the options available.  Keep in mind that our donation and payment schedule is to assist families in knowing the usual costs, but please contact us if other arrangements are necessary.  No one will be turned away because of cost.

Helpful Information:
1.  Funerals are Mondays - Thursdays at 11:00 am. If you have a date or time that is different, please call the office to check on potential availability.
2.  The Committal Service (often called a graveside service) is the burial that follows the funeral.  If you will be having a graveside service, it is usually done immediately after the funeral or soon after the reception.  Be sure to inform and coordinate this with the front office, priest, or deacon.
3.  Casket or cremation funerals are both acceptable options.  It is the usual practice to have the casket or urn present during the funeral.  Talk with the presiding priest for details.  If that is not possible, a memorial Mass is also an option.  
4.  It is typical that friends or family members can be involved in the service by assisting with the readings and bringing up the gifts.  Speak with the presiding priest for coordination.

Optional aspects of the funeral:
1.  Receptions are possible in most situations.  St. Gerard Guild puts together a luncheon which includes sandwiches, side dishes, and drinks.  They do request a donation based on number of attendees to help offset the cost of the sandwich meats, cheeses, and bread (see below).  
2.  The family may wish to choose the readings to be used at the funeral.  You will find below the Funeral Reading links in English or Spanish to assist you. 
3.  Some families wish to include a brief eulogy at the end of the Mass.  If that is the case, let the presiding priest know who will be offering the eulogy so that he can call them up.  Keep in mind that eulogies should be no more than five minutes and should be limited to one or possibly two family members.
4.  Some families may wish to do a vigil service or a rosary before the funeral Mass.  If that is the case, please inform the presiding priest of the plans and who will be leading the rosary.
5.  Flowers, cards, pictures, and decorations are a beautiful way to express your love for the deceased and support for the family.  Keep in mind that decorations should be discussed so they are appropriate and work with the flow of the funeral Mass.  Many aspects such as pictures, slide shows, and stories are more appropriately done at the reception. 

Recommended Donation and Payment Schedule:*
Church Donation: $500
Musician Payment: $150 for pianist and $150 for cantor
Reception: Hosted by the St. Gerard Guild - Suggested donation amounts: $150 for up to 50 people, $200 for 51-75 people, or $250 for 76-150
Priest or presider honorarium: (optional) 

*please submit donations and payments to the parish office on or before the date of the service except for musicians who are paid separately