At funerals, the Church confidently celebrates Christ’s paschal mystery. It is our intention that those who were made one with Christ at baptism may with him pass from death to life. The Church, therefore, offers the Eucharistic sacrifice of Christ’s Passover for the dead and pours forth prayers and petitions for them. Because of the communion of all Christ’s members with each other, all of this brings spiritual aid to the dead and the consolation of hope to the living.
The Order of Christian Funerals of the Catholic Church is divided into three groups of rites.
- The Vigil and Related Rites and Prayers
- The Funeral Liturgy
- The Rite of Committal
At the time of death, arrangements for the rites are made through the Funeral Director. The Funeral Director contacts St. Michael Parish to arrange the day and time for the Vigil Service, the Funeral Liturgy and the Rite of Committal. Funerals are usually celebrated at 9:30 AM or 11 AM.
Should no funeral director be involved, the family is welcome to contact St. Michael Parish for the arrangements at 708-349-0903. After hours and on the weekends, your call is directed by the answering service to one of the priests.
For an impending death, pre-arrangements may be made with St. Michael Parish.
Should the person die in another place and/or the funeral be celebrated elsewhere, a Memorial Liturgy may be arranged at St. Michael Parish by calling the parish office.
For more information on wake services, funerals or pre-arrangements, please contact the Parish Office at 708-349-0903.
Please see the PDF document below from the Archdiocese of Chicago that answers many questions regarding cremations.