St. Catherine Labouré Parish is honored to assist families in preparing a meaningful Funeral Mass for their loved ones. Our funeral liturgies are celebrated to offer comfort, hope, and the consoling presence of God, as we proclaim that life is changed, not ended.
Families are encouraged to:
Resources to Guide Families through the Planning Process
Visitation: May be held at the funeral home or at the church in the narthex, church, or oratory (for a private viewing).
Liturgy of the Word: Approved Scripture readings for Catholic funerals are available by clicking on the Readings for Christian Funerals link above.
Music: A list of suggested funeral music is provided by clicking the List for Suggested Music link above. Other appropriate sacred hymns and songs are welcome. The Director of Music and Worship is happy to assist with song selections.
Family Participation: Family members or friends may participate in the Funeral Mass by proclaiming the readings, leading the intercessions, bringing forward the gifts, or, in some cases, providing music. While participation is not required, the funeral planning form includes space to list those who will take part. Parish ministers are also available to assist as needed.
Mass Programs: The parish will provide printed programs containing the readings, responses, and song texts for the Funeral Mass. Families are encouraged to select a meaningful image for the front of the program.
Words of Remembrance: Sometimes known as a eulogy, this takes place during Mass after communion. The parish asks that these remarks be prepared ahead of time, be kept reverent, and be read by only one person.
Photo Display: Families are welcome to display photos in the oratory or narthex of the church. They may also provide a flash drive for photos and/or videos to be displayed on screens in the narthex. Flash drives photos should be provided at least 48 hours prior to the funeral Mass.
Luncheons in Leo Hall: Leo Hall (located beneath the parish office at 4000 Derry St.) may be used following the funeral/burial, subject to availability Leo Hall: seats 80 people and is handicap accessible.
- Parishioners may use Leo Hall free of charge.
- Non-parishioner families may use Leo Hall for a rental fee of $100, which permits four (4) hours of hall usage.
- The family is responsible for contracting a caterer.
Families may also have a funeral luncheon off-site at a place of their own choosing. In this case, the family is responsible for making all arrangements.
We look forward to meeting and working with you during this time. Please know that if there is anything you need from the parish staff or clergy, do not hesitate to reach out at any time.