Bereavement Team

I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord:

Whoever believes in me will not die forever John 11:25-26

Death is not an easy issue to deal with when it affects us personally, nor is it an easy subject to discuss.  Yet, the Catholic Church has always had a healthy and uplifting attitude toward death.  

The St. Luke Bereavement Team was established in order to provide a fuller ministry for those facing death for themselves or a loved one.  

The St. Luke Bereavement Team has been a ministry in the parish for many years.  Team members began with attending the Wake Services with Fr. Fata at the funeral home.  They then began setting up for the funeral Mass and served as Liturgical Ministers when needed.  After attending grief counseling classes and workshops they would meet with the family of the deceased and assist them in planning the funeral liturgy; picking out Scripture readings, music and providing guidance as to how the family members can take an active part in the Mass.  They attend to all details of the funeral liturgy, making sure that the family is comfortable.

Some of the components of the St. Luke Bereavement Ministry that are in place include:

• Meeting with the family to plan the Wake service and the Funeral Mass
• Attending the calling hours
• Providing for a Deacon or Lay Leader of Prayer to conduct the Wake service
• Providing coordination at the Funeral Mass
• Follow up after the funeral
• Provide Mercy Luncheon information

The St. Luke Bereavement Team has no elected officers, and meet on an annual basis to update policies and procedures.  All work together to provide a comforting experience for those who have lost a loved one.  Current Bereavement Team members include:

For a brochure on St. Luke Funeral Guidelines in PDF form, please click here.

Contact the St. Luke Parish Office for further information on our Bereavement Ministry.