Vigil Service:
Usually the evening before the Funeral, a vigil is held in the parish church.  The family and friends gather around the baptismal font where the casket has been placed. Prayers and songs are sung to honor the life of the deceased.  Following the scripture reading, there is a time for share the life of the loved one with others by telling stories and remembering their life.  This service usually last from 45 minutes to one hour.

Those who are Catechumens and those who have been baptized are accorded the right to a christian burial. This assumes that the person has not formally denounced the Church and God's laws. The funeral rite includes: 1) sprinkling with holy water, 2) placing the pall over the casket, 3) procession into the church. the 4) Liturgy of the Word and the 5) Liturgy of the Eucharist are then followed by the 6) final commendation prayers. Often the entire community follows the body to the place of commital or cemetary for 7) commital prayers.

In recent years, the church has allowed cremation. Questions arise regarding changing acceptance of cremated bodies. It is hoped that the funeral service will precede the cremation. At times a Memorial Service will be held when the body is not present. Contact the parish office to arrange for these and the availability of a Presider before setting any times.