We offer Funeral Services for Catholics and will do what we can to help friends and families of deceased loved ones to experience the love of God and His Church. In addition to funerals we can often offer receptions in the parish hall .
This guide is to offer some basic information, but since the details are a bit complex, please call the parish office for details, arrangements, and availability. Most services are provided by volunteers and are subject to their availability. We also advise that you contact us before the funeral parlor so that you can save duplication of services and better plan knowing the options available. A list of funeral readings are provided at this link: Catholic English Funeral Readings Options Lecturas en espanol
Helpful Information:
1. Funerals are mostly done during weekdays, outside of or during daily masses, but can be done if times are available on Saturday. Please call the office to check on potential availability of time and presider.
2. The Committal Service (often called a graveside service) is the burial that follows the funeral. If you will be having a graveside service, it is usually done immediately after the funeral or soon after the reception. Be sure to inform and coordinate this with the front office and priest.
3. Casket or cremation funerals are both acceptable options. It is the usual practice to have the casket or urn present during the funeral. Talk with the presiding priest for details. If that is not possible, a memorial Mass is also an option.
4. It is typical that friends or family members can be involved in the service by assisting with the readings and bringing up the gifts. Speak with the presiding priest for coordination.
Optional aspects of the funeral:
1. Receptions are possible in most situations. Shepherd's voluntary Bereavement group puts together a luncheon which includes sandwiches, side dishes, and drinks. Donations to help offset the cost of the sandwich meats, cheeses, and bread are accepted but not mandated to receive this service. A simple dessert and coffee menu is also offered.
2. The family may wish to choose the readings to be used at the funeral. You will find above the Funeral Reading links in English or Spanish to assist you.
3. Some families wish to include a brief eulogy at the end of the Mass. If that is the case, let the presiding priest know who will be offering the eulogy so that he can call them up. Keep in mind that eulogies should be no more than five minutes and should be limited to one or possibly two family members.
4. Some families may wish to do a vigil service or a rosary before the funeral Mass. If that is the case, please inform the office so they can book the time if it is at the church and not at the funeral home, and the presiding priest of the plans and who you have found to lead the rosary.
5. Flowers, cards, pictures, and decorations are a beautiful way to express your love for the deceased and support for the family. Keep in mind that decorations should be discussed so they are appropriate and work with the flow of the funeral Mass. Many aspects such as pictures, slide shows, and stories are more appropriately done at the reception.
6. Creating Mass brochures or additonal mass (Liturgical) powerpoints and their presentations are the responsibility of the family or friends of the deceased.
Recommended Donations:*
Families often ask what kind of donation they should give. Donations are voluntary and no services will be denied due to inability to donate. Contact the office if you have questions about possible amounts.
*please submit any donations to the parish office. Checks are made out to Shepherd of the Valley.
We don't have a volunteer ministry group that soley handles and plans funerals or is available necessarily to plan or provide certain services often available. With guidance and support from your meeting with Father to plan the funeral, and the office and funeral home, a beautiful liturgy is not only doable, but the standard here at Shepherd. Our prayers are with you.