LAZARUS MINISTRY
When a loved one dies, we are here to help.
What is the Lazarus Ministry?
When a loved one dies, it is a time of great stress and emotion. Although nothing can take away the pain, our faith offers immense comfort through the funeral liturgy and its accompanying traditions. In the Catholic funeral tradition, we not only comfort the bereaved, but we pray for the deceased.
The St. Luke Lazarus Ministry was formed to offer comfort and assistance to families during these stressful times. At the present time, Connie Noyes, coordinates this ministry. Once notified of a death, she offers guidance to the family in planning the rosary, wake service, and funeral, including the readings and music, all with the approval of our pastor.
The committee also offers to prepare a funeral meal following the service so that family members and friends can gather together to share memories and enjoy a meal together. The Lazarus Ministry meal coordinator is Cyndi Gartung. Once Cyndi is notified, she contacts parishioners who have volunteered to bring a dish for these meals. Those who are able, also volunteer to help Cyndi set up the tables, put out the food after the funeral and help clean up at the end. Cyndi’s e-mail is gargnut@aol.com if you would like to be added to our Lazarus Food List. Her cell phone number is 615-636-3170.
Although many parishioners who have volunteered to help are only able to occasionally attend the funeral and meal due to other commitments, they can still support the bereaved family by contributing a dish for the meal. This meal could not be offered to the families with the help and contribution of parishioners.
Additionally, once a year, the Lazarus Ministry holds a Remembrance Celebration to remember deceased loved ones. It is generally held on the Sunday closest to All Soul’s Day. The program begins with bringing your loved one’s picture to the Mass you attend. After the 12:00 pm Mass we have a pot-luck meal, music, a speaker and conclude with reading the names of the deceased loved ones of those present. The loss our parishioner’s endure is not forgotten. We offer our support to those still suffering the pains of grief.
Please call Cyndi Gartung at 615-636-3170 if you would like to assist in this ministry. If you would like to be notified when a parishioner passes, please let Cyndi know via e-mail. Her address is gargnut@aol.com. Information is also posted on our St. Luke Facebook page.
Funeral Arrangement Forms
Funeral Arrangement Form
