Brothers and Sisters,

Jesus says, I am the Resurrection and the Life in John's gospel in response to his friend Martha after the loss of his friend Lazarus.  Your loved one has now entered into eternal life and is in need of our prayers and intercession.  We are here not only to intercede for their soul but also to accompany you and your family and friends in this time of loss.  We send our deepest condolences to you and your family. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your grief.   

We have created this online form to help our ministry team plan the funeral liturgy for your deceased loved one.  You will have the opportunity to save your work as you go through all the information; you can return to it to complete it. Please be sure to save your work if you are unable to complete the form right away.   

Complete the form as best as possible.  Any missing information can be reviewed with one of our funeral hosts.  All of your selections are subject to approval by our pastor and staff. 

Please make sure to complete the information for the "Next of Kin" as this will be our main point of contact for the funeral.

We will remain in contact with you throughout this planning process and will schedule a meeting with one of our funeral hosts prior to the funeral to ensure that all questions are answered and the plan is finalized.  The host will be your host for the funeral and reception. 

Music offered at funerals remains the financial responsibility of the Family:

• Vocalist/Cantor- $125
• Accompanist - $125

It is appropriate to provide Honoria for clergy and others involved in the different parts of the funeral service.  This can be discussed with your funeral host.  Similarly, donations to the parish and donations for the reception are welcomed according to your desire and ability.

If questions or concerns arise as you make your way through this form, don't hesitate to call our office for clarification.

Our prayers are with you as you work through the details to honor your loved one on their passing into Eternal Life.  

-St. Joan of Arc Parish Staff

*NOTE: This form is best viewed and completed on a computer or larger screened device rather than mobile device or phone.  Please consider using a computer to view this form. 

Parts of the Funeral

The different parts of a Catholic funeral included the following:

• PRAYER VIGIL The Vigil (also known as a Wake) usually takes place the night before the funeral and allows family and friends to gather and pray together for the deceased.
• VISITATION: This is a time for people to pay their respects and offer condolences either in front of open or closed casket.  Visitations can be done at the Vigil or just before the funeral Mass.  A eulogy is often offered during the Visitation by a family member or friend.
• ROSARY: A Vigil may or may not include a Rosary and/or Visitation.  Saying the Rosary at the Vigil is most common and is a way of interceding for the family and friends as well as for the deceased loved one.
• EULOGY: Offering a eulogy at the Vigil or before the Mass is optional.  The most effective length of time for a Eulogy is between 5-7 minutes. Please attach a copy of the Eulogy to this form so that we can provide a copy to the priest.  We will also print it for the mass book that will be kept at the ambo for the reader. 
• FUNERAL MASS OR SCRIPTURE SERVICE: A funeral Mass is the most common way for the Church to intercede for the repsose of the soul of our deceased brothers and sisters.  The Mass is commonly offered for Catholics or spouses of Catholics.  A scripture service or a funeral outside of Mass is commonly held for baptized Christians/non-Catholics.  Masses are offered celebrated by priests only, scripture services are celebrated by deacons or priests.  The funeral dates are to be determined and finalized in consultation with the Church and Mortuary.
• RECEPTION: A reception after the funeral service is a gathering for everyone to continue to reminisce informally. Funeral receptions range from a simple cookie and coffee gathering to a sit down lunch and often include a slideshow and pictures or other memorabilia of the deceased. At the funeral reception memories may be shared by family and friends at a podium after people have finished eating.  
• GRAVESIDE BURIAL: Also known of the Rite of Committal, the burial is the  conclusion of the funeral rite.   Through the burial one commits the mortal remains of their loved one to their final resting place.  The burial lasts about 10-15 minutes comprised of a reading of scripture and farewell prayers.  The burial always accompanies a funeral mass or scripture service.  It may take place either after or before the reception or at a later agreed upon date.  No funeral Mass will be scheduled without the understanding of the family that their loved one will be laid to rest intact.  No scattering of ashes, dividing of remains, or any other disrespect to the deceased's mortal remains will be tolerated. 

Completing as many of the selections below will help us better plan and prepare for this special day for you and your loved one.  Again, if you are unsure of something, you can save your work and come back to it later or discuss with your funeral host.