We at St. Catherine of Siena want to make ourselves available to families and friends who suffer at the time of the death of a loved one. We hope to bring to bear the support, resources and the prayer of our parish family to this difficult time. Any assistance we can give extends the heart of Jesus that was offered so particularly to those grieving the loss of a loved one. We realize that there are many decisions that need to be made and details, which need to be considered, often in a short period of time. We offer these thoughts as help and direction.
 

As Death Approaches

Our parish can support those who are ill and their family members through the prayer of the Parish Staff and our family community. Through home and hospital visits, Communion to the sick and the Sacrament of Anointing we hope to bring the healing and comforting attention of Christ to those who suffer. We ask that families not wait until the moment of death to accept the ministry of the church. The last rites prior to death are usually communion for the journey home (Viaticum and a final Anointing of the Sick.) The Sacrament of Anointing is available to all during their illness as a source of strength. The Church does, however, propose that Viaticum or a final Holy Communion be given to those in imminent danger of death so that Christ may be “with them on their way.” Those who have already died are in God’s keeping. While they are no longer able to receive the sacraments with us, their fellow Christians still pray and formally commend them to the love and mercy of God.
 

IF DEATH COMES UN-EXPECTANTLY

Grief sometimes settles on us like a cloud and only time and slow accustoming can teach us to live without the beloved partner who has passed. Choosing another family member or close friend to act on your behalf in planning and the rites of burial sometime makes the most sense. We are a Communion of Saints says St. Paul and death cannot threaten the bond of love between us. The proper rites for this kind of loss are different. Grief sets its own schedule. Anniversaries, vigils, remembrances and often just informal regular gatherings at home take on even more significance.