Funerals

When someone you love has died

We are sorry for your loss. The parish will pray with you and help you plan a Catholic funeral that commends your loved one to God’s mercy.

If death is near

Ask for a priest. For an urgent sacramental need, use the priest emergency contact in the top header, or call the Parish Office. Read more about the Anointing of the Sick.

Arranging the funeral

Contact a funeral director first. The funeral director will call the Parish Office to set the date and time of the Funeral Mass. You may also call the parish yourself at 201-891-1122.

The Catholic funeral rites

• Vigil (wake): prayers for the person who has died, usually at the funeral home.
• Funeral Mass: celebrated in the church, where we commend your loved one to God.
• Committal: final prayers at the cemetery or mausoleum.

Planning the Funeral Mass

Families choose the Scripture readings and music with the parish. The sample worship guide shows how a Funeral Mass is arranged.

Cremation

The Church permits cremation, though it prefers that the body be present for the Funeral Mass, with cremation afterward. The ashes are buried or placed in a mausoleum or columbarium. They are not scattered or kept at home.

Remembering and grieving

You can have a Mass offered for your loved one, and add their name to our prayer intentions. Our Bereavement Ministry, open to people of all faiths, runs support groups in the spring and fall and a Bereavement Support Night on the second Wednesday of each month from September through June. Call 201-891-1122, ext. 266.

“I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live.”
John 11:25