Funerals

The loss of someone close to us is often a time of sadness and confusion. The Church wishes to be present to those grieving in a way that helps them deal with their loss and, at the same time, experience the hope that is ours because of the resurrection of the Lord Jesus.

The reflections and the suggestions that follow are intended to help families plan the funeral of their loved ones, either at the time of death or beforehand. Many families find making the funeral arrangements before the death occurs a wise and loving alternative. When the time of death comes, they're not caught up in the rush of planning. The parish staff and priests are available to assist in the pre-planning.

Contact Us

Before you make any plans for a funeral, please call our office at (204) 474-2351 to arrange for an appointment with a pastor.

After your appointment, a member of the parish team will call you to arrange a time to meet and discuss any further questions or concerns.

Options

We encourage you to contact the office early on in the funeral planning process so that the family may know the options available. These include: vigil prayers, selection of readings and music, choice of musicians, readers, pall bearers and other details.

Funeral Masses

It's customary to have a funeral mass at the Church usually within three or four days of the death. This may vary, depending on the arrival of family or other special circumstances. While services are sometimes held in the funeral home, the priests are usually not available for these services.

Cremation

Cremation is an acceptable practice in our tradition. The Church encourages families to have the body present in the church for the funeral, with the cremation afterwards and the remains then buried in a Catholic cemetery.

Eulogies

Eulogies at the funeral mass are not a part of our tradition. These are better offered at the prayers before the funeral, at a reception following the mass, or at the grave side. A few words from one family member or friend at the beginning of the funeral mass is quite appropriate. We ask that a copy of this be left at the office for the priest who will celebrate the funeral mass.

Offering

It's customary to make an offering to the church in thanksgiving for the life of the deceased.