Funerals & Funeral Reception

Eternal Rest: Catholic Funeral Planning

Ministry Lead

Nancy Macias, Business Manager

Administrative & Financial Questions
Phone: (719) 725-6451
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

We Are Here for You

On behalf of our parish family, please accept our prayers and deepest sympathy during this difficult time. The loss of a loved one can bring many emotions and many decisions. You do not have to navigate this journey alone.

Our parish is honored to walk with you as you plan a Catholic Funeral Mass—a sacred opportunity to thank God for the gift of your loved one's life, pray for the repose of their soul, and find comfort in the hope of Christ's Resurrection.

When a death occurs, we encourage you to contact the funeral home of your choice and then reach out to the parish office. We will work closely with your family and the funeral home to coordinate the funeral arrangements and help guide you through each step of the planning process.

The Catholic Funeral Mass

The Funeral Mass is one of the most beautiful traditions of our Catholic faith. Through Scripture, prayer, sacred music, and the Eucharist, we entrust our loved one to God's mercy and celebrate the promise of eternal life given to us through Jesus Christ.

Every funeral is unique because every life is a gift from God. Our clergy and staff will assist your family in selecting readings, music, and family participation that reflect both the dignity of the liturgy and the life of your loved one.

How Family and Friends May Participate

Many families find comfort in taking part in the Funeral Mass. Loved ones may be invited to assist as:

  • Readers for the First and Second Readings
  • Readers of the Prayers of the Faithful
  • Gift Bearers during the Presentation of the Gifts
  • Pall Bearers, when applicable
  • Participants in the Placing of the Pall
  • Speakers for a brief Words of Remembrance, when approved by the celebrant

Our parish staff will gladly help coordinate these roles and answer any questions.

What to Expect During the Funeral Mass

Reception of the Body

The priest or deacon will welcome your loved one and family at the entrance of the church. This moment reminds us that through Baptism we became members of God's family and were welcomed into the Church.

Placing of the Pall

If a casket is present, family members may place a white pall over it. The pall recalls the white garment received at Baptism and symbolizes our dignity as children of God.

Liturgy of the Word

Family and friends gather to hear God's Word proclaimed through Scripture readings chosen for the funeral. These readings offer hope, comfort, and the promise of eternal life.

Homily

The celebrant reflects on the Scriptures and the Christian hope we share in Christ's victory over death.

Holy Eucharist

The Eucharist is the heart of the Funeral Mass. As we gather around the altar, we pray for your loved one and unite ourselves with Christ's sacrifice and resurrection.

Final Commendation

At the conclusion of Mass, the Church offers final prayers for your loved one. Through incense, song, and prayer, we commend them to God's loving embrace and prepare for their journey to their place of burial or interment.

Burial and Committal

Following the Funeral Mass, many families proceed to the cemetery for the Rite of Committal. This final prayer service offers another opportunity to entrust your loved one to God and seek comfort in the presence of family, friends, and the Church.

Funeral Music

Music has a unique way of expressing faith when words are difficult to find. Sacred hymns and songs chosen for the Funeral Mass should reflect our Catholic beliefs and the prayerful nature of the liturgy.

Our music ministry is available to help guide you in selecting appropriate music that will bring comfort and inspire prayer.

Reception and Fellowship

Donna Wahl, Reception Ministry Lead

  • Following the Funeral Mass, many families choose to gather in fellowship to share memories, offer support to one another, and celebrate the life of their loved one. These gatherings provide an opportunity for family and friends to continue the ministry of comfort and Christian charity that is at the heart of our faith.
  • We are deeply grateful to the Catholic Daughters of the Americas for their dedicated service and leadership in this ministry. Through their generosity, hospitality, and commitment to serving others, they help provide a welcoming environment where families can gather in fellowship during a time of loss.
  • Depending on availability, our parish may be able to provide space for a reception following the funeral. Please speak with parish staff regarding setup, hospitality, and catering arrangements.
  • We thank the Catholic Daughters and all our funeral ministry volunteers who faithfully serve Christ by accompanying families with compassion, kindness, and prayer.

 

Funeral Ministry Donations

As part of our Funeral and Bereavement Ministry, St. Dominic Catholic Church is honored to accompany families through prayer, support, and the celebration of the Funeral Mass.

Suggested donations help support the ministries and services involved in the funeral liturgy, including clergy, music ministry, liturgical ministers, facility preparation, and hospitality services when requested.

A Note to Families

  • The Church's primary concern is the spiritual care of your family and your loved one. No one will be denied funeral services because of financial circumstances.
  • Suggested donations and any related expenses will be discussed personally with the family during the funeral planning process.
  • Our parish staff will gladly answer any questions and assist with arrangements in a compassionate and confidential manner.
  • We are honored to accompany you in faith, prayer, and hope in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.

"Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon them. May they rest in peace. Amen."