Funerals

We offer our condolences on your loved one’s passing, and we are here to support you.

Planning the Funeral Mass
We understand how difficult it can be to plan a funeral Mass for a loved one. Please contact the Pastoral Care Office at (716) 283-2238 or stjohndelasalle@outlook.com to schedule and plan a funeral. If you are working with a funeral home, the funeral director will help you with the funeral Mass arrangements.

We will provide you with a booklet to help you select scripture readings and music for the funeral Mass. You will have the option of asking family members and/or friends to proclaim the scripture readings (1 to 3 people), act as pall bearers (6 people), and take up the gifts to be used in the preparation of Holy Communion (2-5 people).

The Wake
The wake or visitation can be part of the funeral rites. Normally, the wake is held at the funeral home. If desired, it may be held in our church. Please contact the Pastoral Care Office at (716) 283-2238 or stjohndelasalle@outlook.com to arrange for a priest to offer prayers at the wake.

Eulogies/Words of Remembrance
Eulogies are not required at the funeral Mass. If someone chooses to speak, the following guidelines should be kept in mind:

• Eulogies should be brief, no more than 5-7 minutes.
• Eulogies should be prepared, not improvised.
• The word “eulogy” comes from Greek root words meaning “good words,” or “praise.” A eulogy should highlight the ways in which the deceased person lived a good, holy life.
• Off-color or embarrassing stories are to be avoided during the funeral Mass. Such remembrances are better shared during informal gatherings outside the Church.

Funerals for Non-Catholics
Someone who was not Catholic may have a Catholic funeral – if the person did not have a church of his/her own, and a Catholic family member requests it.