The Vigil (Wake)
Usually held the evening before the funeral, the Vigil is a time for the family and community to gather in prayer. We keep watch with Scripture, the Rosary, and remembrances, entrusting our loved one to the Lord.
Funeral & Bereavement
In the face of death, the Church speaks of the hope of the Resurrection. We walk with you and your family in this sacred time.
In the event of a death, please call us first
Funeral arrangements are time-sensitive, and we want to help you right away. Before anything else, please call the parish office so we can pray with you and begin to make arrangements together.
Call the parish office: 831-628-3216Our hope in the Resurrection
For the Christian, death is not the end but a passage into the fullness of life with God. United to Christ in Baptism, we trust that those who have died in His friendship will share in His Resurrection. “I am the resurrection and the life,” the Lord says; “whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live.” In the funeral liturgy the Church commends the deceased to God’s mercy and comforts the living with the promise of eternal life. We grieve, but as people who have hope.
The rites of Christian burial
The Funeral Mass
The heart of the Church’s farewell, the Funeral Mass offers the Holy Sacrifice for the repose of the soul of the deceased. Surrounded by the Word of God and the Eucharist, we pray for our loved one and find consolation in Christ’s victory over death.
The Rite of Committal
At the place of burial or entombment, the Church prays a final blessing and commends the body to its resting place, in sure and certain hope of the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come.
Planning the funeral
Together we will choose the Scripture readings and sacred music for the Mass, keeping in mind that the liturgy is first an act of prayer for the deceased. A brief remembrance of the person’s life may be offered at the Vigil or the reception; the Funeral Mass itself centers on the Word of God and the Eucharist. The parish staff will gently guide you through every detail.
Prayers and grief support
Our parish family holds you in prayer, and our care does not end with the funeral. Whether you long for someone to pray with, a Mass offered for your loved one, or simply a listening heart in the weeks and months that follow, please reach out. You do not grieve alone.
Non-urgent questions
This form is for non-urgent inquiries only. If a death has occurred, please call the parish office so we can help you right away.