Funeral Guidelines at St. Matthew Church

At the death of a Christian, whose life of faith was begun in the waters of Baptism and strengthened at the Eucharistic table, the Church intercedes on behalf of the deceased because of its confident belief that death is not the end, nor does it break the bonds forged in life. The Church also ministers to the sorrowing and consoles them in the funeral rites with the comforting Word of God and the Sacrament of the Eucharist.
Order of Christian Funerals No. 4

DID YOU KNOW….

  • Every Baptized Christian has the right to a Christian Burial, and the right to the Mass in the Church, whether or not they are a registered member of St. Matthew Church.
  • You have the right to choose the Readings and to plan the music selections with the Parish priest for the Mass of Christian Burial
  • The Mass of Christian Burial offers liturgical roles to be chosen and often performed by family members.
  • Words of remembrance take place after the Closing Prayer
  • If Mass is not chosen, a funeral Liturgy of the Word and final commendation of the deceased is celebrated and can be done in the church, a funeral home, in a chapel at the cemetery or even at the graveside.
  • Funeral Guidelines have been issued by Bishop Frank J. Caggiano and seconded by Msgr. Walter, for one year.
  • For the Diocese of Bridgeport funeral guidelines, please click HERE.