At St. Rose, we recognize that the death of a loved one is a time of profound sorrow, confusion, and loss. Please know that you are not alone. Our parish family is here to walk with you, offering prayerful support, compassion, and guidance during this difficult time.
To begin funeral arrangements, please contact the Parish Office at 269-945-4246. Once the funeral home has notified the parish, our priest and parish staff will assist you in preparing the funeral rites and supporting your family through each step of the process.
While death brings grief and sadness, our Catholic faith offers hope and consolation. In this sacred time, we are invited to encounter God anew and to deepen our trust in His abiding love—for ourselves and for the one who has died. As Christians, we comfort one another in the promise of eternal life and the resurrection of the dead.
When Christians face death, we are drawn to prayer—for the deceased and for those who mourn. The Church accompanies the faithful through the funeral rites, which are acts of worship, praise, and thanksgiving to God for the gift of life now returned to Him, the Author of all life. These rites bring hope and consolation to the living.
The Catholic funeral rites are celebrated in three principal moments:
The Vigil for the Deceased, commonly known as the wake, marks the beginning of the funeral rites. It is a time when the Christian community gathers to pray for the deceased and to offer comfort and support to the grieving family.
The wake service is usually led by a priest or deacon and includes Scripture readings, a brief reflection, intercessory prayers for the deceased and the mourners, the Lord’s Prayer, and a concluding prayer with a blessing.
The Mass of Christian Burial is the central celebration of the funeral rites. In this sacred liturgy, the Church proclaims our faith that death is not an end, but a passage to new life through the Resurrection of Jesus Christ and the promise of eternal union with God.
Themes of resurrection and hope are reflected in the Scripture readings, hymns, and prayers of the Mass. All in attendance are encouraged to participate fully and prayerfully.
Bereavement ministers will assist the family in selecting appropriate readings, hymns, and prayers. Family members or friends may serve as pallbearers, place the pall on the casket, and present the gifts during the Mass.
The Rite of Committal is celebrated at the place of burial or interment. In committing the body to its final resting place, the Church expresses her hope in the resurrection of the dead and entrusts the deceased to God’s mercy.
The Rite of Committal ordinarily takes place immediately following the funeral Mass, unless a pastoral reason—such as travel to a distant cemetery—requires otherwise. The Church directs that cremated remains be laid to rest in a consecrated burial place.
Our clergy and parish staff are honored to assist you during this sacred time. Please do not hesitate to contact the Parish Office for guidance, prayer, and support.