When a loved one passes, Christ the King - St. Stephen community is here for you. We work with family members to create a service that celebrates the life of the deceased as we commend them to the mercy of God.
A staff member will assist the family in planning the service for your deceased loved one, including: whether to have the service within a Mass or outside of Mass, choosing scripture readings, prayers and songs. Family members and friends are encouraged to participate in the celebration of life of their loved one and are invited to do so, as they wish. Usually the casket or cremains are present for the liturgy unless circumstances prevent it. We pledge to do everything possible to ensure a beautiful, meaningful tribute to your loved one.
Honoring Your Loved One
Some families choose to have a vigil service at the funeral home the evening before the funeral liturgy. The vigil offers a time of visitation (viewing of the body in the casket). The service usually includes Scripture readings, a reflection and prayers. The rosary is also an option. The best time for family and friends to share memories of their loved one is at the Vigil.
Celebrating the Life of Your Loved One
The Church encourages that the body of the deceased be present for the funeral rites. However, cremation is a fairly recent development and is permitted. Another option would be to have the body (in casket) present for the funeral liturgy and the cremation to follow the funeral.
Saying Goodbye (Burial or Internment)
The Rite of Committal is celebrated beside the open grave or place of interment. The body or cremains are placed in its final resting place. This usually takes place immediately following the funeral liturgy or soon after.
Bereavement Ministry
Ministers will call family members who have recently suffered the loss of a loved one and held funeral or memorial services at either CTK/SS or Queen of Heaven.
The family is given a chance to share their ongoing grief, talk about their departed loved one, and receive caring advice and Biblical wisdom to guide them through this difficult period.
Grief Ministry
Our Grief Ministry is still here for you! Even though we cannot meet in person, our Grief Ministers are reaching out to our grieving people to help give support during this challenging time. If you have suffered the loss of a loved one, and would like to receive a call from one of our caring Grief Ministers.
We want to know your needs exactly so that we can provide the perfect solution. Let us know what you want and we’ll do our best to help.