Our Mission
The Bereavement Ministry of [Insert Parish Name: Blessed Sacrament / St. Vincent de Paul] is dedicated to providing compassionate support to families and individuals during the difficult time of loss. Grounded in our Catholic faith, we strive to be a presence of Christ’s love, offering consolation, practical guidance, and spiritual comfort to those who grieve.
"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted." — Matthew 5:4
How We Can Help
Losing a loved one is one of life’s most profound challenges. You do not have to walk this path alone. Our ministry team is here to assist you from the moment of loss through the funeral rites and beyond.
1. Funeral Planning Assistance Our pastoral team and bereavement ministers are available to meet with you to help plan the Funeral Mass. We can assist with:
- Selecting Scripture readings and prayers.
- Choosing sacred music that honors your loved one.
- Coordinating participation by family members (e.g., bringing up gifts, placing the pall).
2. Day of Funeral Support On the day of the service, our ministers are present to ensure everything runs smoothly, allowing you to focus on prayer and remembrance. We serve as greeters, lectors, and altar servers, and we are there to answer any questions your guests may have.
3. Grief Support & Resources Grief does not end with the funeral. We offer ongoing support to help you find healing in the weeks and months that follow.
- Annual Mass of Remembrance: Held every November (All Souls' Month), we invite all families who have lost a loved one in the past year to join us for a special liturgy and lighting of candles.
- Prayer & Presence: Our team is available to pray with you or simply provide a listening ear.
- Community Resources: We can connect you with local Catholic counseling services and support groups for those needing additional professional guidance.
Volunteer with Us
Are you called to be a compassionate presence for others? We are always looking for parishioners to join this Ministry of Consolation.
- Greeters & Ushers for funerals.
- Planning Aides to help families select readings.
- Hospitality Team to assist with funeral luncheons (if applicable).
- Card Ministry to send notes of support to grieving families.
Training is provided for all roles.
Contact Us
If you have recently lost a loved one, or if you are interested in serving in this ministry, please contact the parish office.
Blessed Sacrament Church
- Phone: 315-437-3394
- Email: bscoffice@bscstvsyr.org
- Office Hours: Mon–Fri, 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
St. Vincent de Paul Church
- Phone: 315-479-6689
- Email: stvoffice@bscstvsyr.org
- Office Hours: Mon–Fri, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM