Contact: Deacon Lou Piazza, 978 475-0050, x32
Members of the Bereavement Ministry prepare the church for each funeral service so that the Clergy can focus their attention on the family of the deceased and the service at hand. We also ensure that the caring shown by our ministers will comfort families and friends who have lost their loved one. We provide any help we can to insure that the needs of family and friends are met before, during and after the service.
Specific duties include arriving at the church before the Mass to prepare all of the items needed for the service: the Pall, Book of Gospels, Rite of Christian Burial, the Crucifix, Holy Water, purificator, Chalice, Paschal candle, unconsecrated hosts and wine, and incense. During Mass we assist the presiding Priest by acting as Altar Server and when needed as Lector and Eucharistic Minister. After the Mass, we purify the vessels and return all items to their proper place.
People serve this ministry because they realize how important what we do is to the family and friends of the deceased. We all want our loved ones treated with dignity and respect and to know that their life had meaning and value not only to us but also to the whole faith community of St. Augustine Parish.
Most Funeral Masses at St. Augustine Parish are held at 10:00 am. You must be able to commit about 1 1/2 hours to complete all of the related duties.
If you have any questions, are interested in joining this ministry or need help in finding support to deal with the loss of a loved one, please call Deacon Lou Piazza at 978-475-0050 x32 or at deaconlou@staugustineparish.org.