Funeral Ministry

The responsibility for the Ministry of Consolation rests with the believing community, which heeds the words and example of the Lord Jesus:  “Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be consoled.”  Each Christian shares in this ministry according to the various gifts and offices in the Church.  The faith of the Christian community in the resurrection of the dead brings support and strength to those who suffer the loss of those whom they love.  As part of our pastoral ministry here at Saint Pius X Parish, we have established a Ministry of Consolation. 

Upon news of a death, a member of the Ministry of Consolation will be in contact with the surviving family members over the course of the next few days as they prepare for the funeral rites.  They will offer the words of faith and support and acts of kindness that will allow the members of the family to devote time to planning the funeral rites with them and also give the family time for prayer and mutual comfort.

The community’s principal involvement in the ministry of consolation is expressed in its active participation in the celebration of the funeral rites.  The Minister of Consolation will describe the funeral liturgy and explain how the community gathers to hear the word of God proclaimed and to celebrate the Eucharist when one of the faithful dies.

We invite you to participate in the Funeral Rites to the extent that you are comfortable.  The Minister of Consolation will go over several options that you may have within the celebration of those rites, including the choice of texts of Sacred Scripture, and the rites provided in the ritual; in addition to the selection of music for the rites, and the designation of ministers to exercise those ministries proper to the liturgy.

As you prepare for the funeral of a parishioner, we know of our continued prayers for your loved one and for yourselves, that each one of us on our journey may always “console one another with the message” of Jesus’ dying and rising to new life.

To volunteer as part of the Ministry of Consolation, please contact Fr. Paul Castellani at the Rectory, 610-353-4880.