• What do I do when a loved one dies?

  ​​Whether your loved one dies at home, at the hospital, or at hospice or a nursing home, the first call to arrange the funeral should be to the funeral home of your choice. The funeral director will transfer the body to the funeral home in preparation for the funeral itself. Then he or she will meet with you to make final arrangements.  

  
  

   

  Once the parish office receives information from the funeral director and a specific church and time are chosen, our staff will call you to help with choosing the readings and music for the funeral.  
  
  Here is a link to a guide which will help you through this difficult time, from planning the funeral mass to what other things might need to be addressed.  
  
  Catholic Funeral Planning Guide

  
   
  Catholic Funeral FAQs​​
   
  ​May I be cremated?  

  The Catholic Church prefers that the body itself be buried. This is more in keeping with honoring the dignity of the human body as a temple of the Holy Spirit and follows the example of Jesus’ burial. 

  
  

  However, cremation is permitted. Cremated remains should be treated with the same dignity and respect as the body. It is preferred that the cremation take place after the funeral Mass. Cremated remains should be buried in a grave or entombed in a mausoleum or columbarium. The cremated remains should not be kept at home. 

  
  May my ashes be scattered? 

  The Catholic Church does not permit the scattering of ashes. Cremated remains or the body of the deceased is to be buried in sacred ground or another designated area at the cemetery. 

  
  

  Burial at sea is permitted. The body or ashes are lowered into the ocean. Scattering of ashes at sea is not permitted. 

   
  May I plan my funeral in advance? 

  Most funeral homes are happy to help you plan your funeral ahead of time. This relieves your survivors of a great burden and assures you have the funeral you wish.  
  
  ***PLEASE NOTE: If you choose to pre-arrange your funeral, you MUST have your selections NOTARIZED!  If not, your family is NOT REQUIRED to follow your wishes!*** 

   
  
  Are there times when funerals are not permitted?  

  Yes. Funeral Masses in church are not permitted on Sundays at any time, Saturdays after 1:00 pm, on Holy Days of Obligation, on Holy Thursday, Good Friday, or Holy Saturday. 

   

  Weekday evening funerals are permitted. 

   
  May I choose scripture readings and songs? 

  Yes. There are choices in our Funeral Guide. Our staff can assist you with these selections. 

  
  May family members participate in the funeral? 

  We welcome the participation of practicing Catholics at appropriate points in the funeral rites.