St. Christopher Parish at 435 E National Rd, Vandalia, OH 45377 US - Bereavement Ministry

BACKGROUND:  The St. Christopher Parish bereavement ministry began shortly after the parish was organized in 1957.  At that time, and for many years, parishioners ministered to each other through several guilds whose members prepared food for a meal after the funeral or memorial service to be shared in the home of families of the deceased.  The first formal bereavement ministry was formed in 1992. Several people were recruited to help families plan the liturgy for a loved one's funeral. In 1996 more planners were recruited.  Today there are about a dozen volunteers, who, in pairs, meet with family members of the deceased to help them plan the liturgy and other functions of the funeral service.  The ministry also includes musicians, choir members, servers (generally senior parishioners), lectors, a group of volunteers who set up and serve luncheons, and many other volunteers who prepare the food.  A unique, printed program is prepared for each funeral service.  St. Christopher Parish hopes to help comfort you during your time of sorrow.  As Christians, we know that death is not an end but a beginning.  Through death, we pass from this temporary life on earth to an eternal, glorious life in heaven.

"Eye has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has prepared for those who love him." (1 Cor 2:9).

Our bereavement ministry is composed of members of the St. Christopher community.  This is an organized way of showing care and concern for families and individuals mourning the loss of a loved one.  These members are committed to providing consolation and support.  One important mission is to help the families of the deceased prepare a funeral liturgy.

The Church's Role - All those who have been baptized are entitled to the full Rite of Christian Burial.  These rites will occur during three important gatherings:
The Vigil - This rite takes place at the funeral home.  A member of the parish leads a prayer service for the family members and friends who are present.
The Funeral Liturgy - This is the most important of the funeral rites.  The bodily remains of the deceased are honored in the parish church.  This rite is usually, but not necessarily, celebrated in the context of the Mass.
The Committal - This rite takes place at the cemetery and concludes the prayerful respect given to the body of all Christians.  This graveside service brings closure to the Rite of Christian Burial.

Involvement of Family and Friends at the Funeral Service - Choosing the scripture readings and music, placing the white pall on the casket, serving as pall bearers, and presenting the gifts of bread and wine are the most appropriate ways to involve loved ones in the funeral service.  Although the practice of offering a eulogy is normally not a part of the funeral liturgy, a member or a friend of the family may speak in remembrance of the deceased before the end of the funeral service.

The Luncheon - A member of the St. Christopher bereavement ministry will contact the family to determine if a luncheon in our parish center is desired.  If a luncheon is to be held, the parish will handle all the arrangements (alcoholic beverages are not permitted).  There is no charge for the luncheon; however a donation to the bereavement ministry may be made.

Cremation - In recent years the Catholic Church has lifted the prohibition on cremation.  The Church still has a strong preference for burial of the body.  If cremation is chosen, it is recommended that it take place following the funeral liturgy.  All Christians, including those who are cremated, are to be buried in consecrated ground or tomb.  The practice of dividing or scattering ashes, or keeping the ashes at home, is not in keeping with the Church's teachings.

Special Funeral Requests - You may be dealing with some special requests of your deceased loved one concerning the funeral.  It is important to keep in mind that any requests that do not respect the Rites of the Church may have to be compromised.  The parish, together with the funeral director, will do its best to comply with such requests.

After the Funeral - Grieving after the death of a loved one can last for many months, years, or perhaps a lifetime.  Sometimes it is helpful to meet and talk with others who are experiencing the same feelings.  The Bereavement Ministry can provide you with a list of support groups in the area that may be of help to you.  If you need additional information, please contact Bob Stelzer at 890-2444.  A copy of the list also is available at the Church office.

Memorial Service - The St Christopher Bereavement Ministry also conducts an annual Memorial Service in November.  At this service our deceased loved ones are remembered through songs and prayers.  Those who have suffered the loss of a family member during the past year will receive a special invitation to this liturgy.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:  If you need additional information about the Bereavement Ministry, please Bob Stelzer at 890-2444 or Carolyn Schwab at 237-5942.  Also, you may call if you are interested in joining our ministry.  This group meets on the last Wednesday of each month at 9:30 a.m. in the Bridal Room of the church.  If you are interested in helping to serve at the funeral luncheons or have an interest in preparing food for the luncheons, please call Karen or John Ortega at 898-4018.


Updated 8/5/08