Dear Friend,

On behalf of the pastoral staff and the people of St. Bernard’s Parish, may I offer you our sincere condolences at this time of loss.  We hope to be of support to you during this difficult time, especially during the funeral services for your loved one.  The Catholic funeral rites are designed to give thanks to God for the gift of the life of the one who has passed away and to bring hope and consolation to those of us who remain.  Your local funeral director will give you a packet with information about planning the funeral Mass at St. Bernard's, or you may download these materials using the links below.  The materials will help you plan for your loved one’s funeral.

Shortly after you visit the funeral director, a representative from our Parish Consolation Ministry will contact you to discuss the wake and funeral arrangements.  This person will assist you in choosing the Scripture readings and music for the funeral Mass and invite you to share some memories and qualities of your loved one.  This meeting may take place at the parish office or, if more convenient for you, over the phone.  I suggest you take some time in advance to review the booklet in this folder and consider your choices for Scripture readings, music, and possible participation in the Mass by friends and family members.

Be assured of the concern and support of the Consolation Ministry and the entire Parish of St. Bernard’s during this time of loss.  Our prayers are with you now and in the days to come.

Peace,
Father John McCarthy
Pastor

If you are using the services of a local Funeral Home, they should have provided you with a packet including the following materials.  They are also available here for viewing and download:

• Funeral Planning Book  
• Funeral Music Selections (The music minister will choose the music if you have no preference.)
• Instructions for Readers at Funerals (The parish will supply readers if the family prefers.)
• Guidelines for Words of Remembrance at Funerals (Eulogies are generally given at the wake or the graveside.)