Funerals

The first call following the death of a loved one should be to a funeral home of your choosing. The funeral director will contact the Pastoral Center office to make arrangements.

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

It can be difficult and challenging to plan for the funeral of a loved one in the midst of personal grieving. Our parish staff is well aware of this, so please know that we are here to guide you through the planning process and to be of service to you in whatever ways that we can in order to make it less burdensome on you. We want to respect your private sadness while also recognizing that a funeral Mass or service is a public act of worship whereby the community of God’s people gathers together in prayer for the deceased as well as for those who grieve. The funeral rites, when carefully planned and carried out, have the capacity to affirm our belief in Jesus’ promise of eternal life and help us find hope and peace in our grief and pain.

You are invited to help the priest and members of the parish staff adapt and personalize the funeral rites in a way that meaningfully conveys the Church’s consolation while reflecting the faith, life, and personality of the deceased. In choosing the scriptural readings, designating family members or friends as readers, selecting hymns, and by providing the priest with a better understanding of the life of the deceased, families help to provide this special meaning to the funeral rites.

Know that you are in our prayers now and in the days ahead.

Sincerely in Christ,
The Priests and Staff of the Portland Peninsula & Island Parishes