HOME

Condolences for the loss of your loved one. St. Edwin church offers funeral services for all of its members. Additionally, we open our doors to family of parishioners and others who seek a specifically Catholic service to honor their deceased relative or friend. Typical funeral days are Tuesday through Friday in the morning. Below you can see our most easily-scheduled arrangement. You are welcome to ask for changes, but be prepared to wait longer for a confirmation while we check the parish’s already busy schedule. 1. Preparations for the viewing and service may begin when we have finished our regular morning Mass, around 8:45am. From that time the funeral party may bring in the casket or urn, and place flowers to the sides of the sanctuary. Please do not set anything on our baptismal font. 2. The rosary customarily begins at 9:30am. The parish will provide somebody to lead it from the ambo. 3. The Funeral Mass typically starts at 10:00am. We will provide a lector, with a theme selected by the funeral party beforehand from a number of options. We also provide music for the Mass. Catholic liturgical musicians from other parishes, adequately vetted, may be requested. 4. Special tributes. Many people ask about the place for easels and larger displays, video presentations, eulogies and favorite secular or pop songs. The wake at the funeral home, time after the burial at the cemetery and/or reception in the home or hall are all appropriate times to personalize the passing of a loved one in these ways. We ask for your understanding if we shy away from having the same things in the church, where liturgy and prayer are fitting. 5. A word of discretion. St. Edwin’s is neither a secular morgue nor a non- denominational funeral parlor. Please expect to hear a Catholic sermon and a reminder of the requirements for the reception of Holy Communion. At moments like these, it is normal for those who have not been practicing their Catholic faith to experience complex and sometimes difficult feelings. On another level, realize that not only are visitors paying their respects to the deceased; they are also availing themselves of the hospitality of our close-knit, family-oriented church. As guests, expect to hear a little bit about our parish home. 6. The burial follows. We usually have a deacon available for the graveside service at the cemetery. Otherwise, the funeral home will be able to help you. 7. Our hall is available for receptions afterwards. You are welcome to come in early to bring food and decorate that morning. Preparations may begin the day before if there is no other event taking place at that moment. You may use the refrigerator and freezer to keep foods cold beforehand. Bunsen burner chafing dishes for already- prepared food work well. Actually cooking the food and use of our commercial stove and oven are not permitted. 8. We can book a funeral once we have confirmation from the cemetery that a grave or niche has been obtained, with the date and time for the burial. From there you are welcome to visit the office and complete the process. Blessings as you honor your loved one during this difficult time. We will do our best to accompany you and your family.