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July 16, 2023
Holy Spirit's Funeral Policy
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On June 28th, the clergy of the parish invited all of the area funeral directors from facilities that we primarily use to come together. The purpose of our meeting was to agree upon a more standardized funeral policy for Holy Spirit Parish. Given the fact that we celebrate on an average of 300 funerals a year and also an average of 300 anointings of the sick a year, clarity and understanding is important for all parties involved.
Please see Page 11 of this bulletin for the Funeral
Scheduling Guidelines which were presented to the area Funeral Directors.
Please keep in mind that, with Deacon John taking on a full time job with the Diocese as director of the Office for Deacon Personnel and the Deacon Formation Program , his availability to serve as a deacon for funeral services outside of Mass is limited to a smaller window of time.
Although we have three priests assigned to the parish, the three of us are not available every day of the week. Each priest is entitled to a day off. In addition, I am also a chaplain with the FBI and have obligations with them on a regular basis. I am also called upon by them at a moment’s notice for specific and unplanned services. In addition to this, I am also a member of the presbyteral council and board of consultors which meet on a regular basis, taking me out of the parish for the greater portion of the day. Fr. Ben was recently assigned to an ecumenical board which also meets on a regular basis outside of the parish which also limits his availability for an entire day.
It is our deep desire and commitment as clergy to serve all of our parishioners and even to be open to the wider
community when a loved one is sick, dying or has died. We do not know how long we will have the blessing of three priests to serve our parish. Being organized and having an understanding of a somewhat organized system will be of great service to all involved, moving forward.
Thank you for your understanding, your prayerful support and your respectful cooperation.
Please know that, in all our efforts, you are loved and
cherished!
God Love You,
