The members of the bereavement committee are present to support our parishioners when a family member has died. This includes visiting the funeral home on behalf of the parish, welcoming people at the funeral and to follow up if and when necessary. Also we meet with a member of the family to help them choose the readings, prayers and music for either a Eucharistic Mass with casket or urn/ or memorial service celebrating the life of the deceased. We liaise between the family and the parish priest or the celebrant of the liturgy. We encourage the family to get involved in the liturgy by offering to read, etc. We also prepare a special parish Memorial Service every two years to celebrate the lives of the deceased which is usually held November 2nd - All Souls Day.
We are always in search of new members. All training is provided. It is necessary for each team member to have taken the 10 week Pastoral Care Course so that they are well prepared to aid the grieving. All that is needed is an ability to provide comfort and support to someone who is grieving.