Dear Friends,
An important part of every Mass is the prayers for those who have died. Our belief is that for our loved ones, life has changed, not ended. My most favorite words from the Eucharistic prayers are, “give kind admittance to your Kingdom.” These words are the prayers of everyone who gathers to mourn, honor or lay to rest the person they love.
At St. Patrick we are ready to minister to anyone who calls from the moment the mortuary contacts us, to meeting the family to plan the ceremony, to welcoming everyone to the funeral service and/or the burial, and for the follow up grief support offered long after the service. It is our honor to offer comfort and hope, the most powerful signs in the funeral rites.
Like many other parishes St. Patrick encounters people with all types of connections, parishioners who are an active part of our community, those who feel they belong, but may not always be present, those who may have been away from the Sacraments for many years, and those who have no parish family to call home. We offer the funeral rites to so many from many situations.
On this webpage are some resources to help family and friends prepare for a funeral. Included is a podcast by me to offer some encouraging words and guidance for anyone in such need. Also on this page is a list of suggested scripture readings for the service and a list of songs that may be chosen for the service.
Our suggestion is it is always best to talk to someone representing the parish so that current information may be given. The parish office number is 480-998-3843. We can answer any questions and help the family make arrangements. Our Priests and/or staff member can meet with the family in person or over the phone, to help with selections and help get to know more about your loved one.
“May the angels lead you into paradise; and may the martyrs come to welcome you this day, and bring you to the holy city, the new and eternal Jerusalem”.
Peace in Christ,
Fr. Eric Tellez
Pastor