“At the death of a Christian, whose life of faith was begun in the waters of Baptism and strengthened at the Eucharistic table, the Church intercedes on behalf of the deceased because of its confident belief that death is not the end, nor does it break the bonds forged in life. The Church also ministers to the sorrowing and consoles them in the funeral rites with the comforting Word of God and the Sacrament of the Eucharist.” (Order of Christian Funerals, no. 4)
The priests and staff of St. John Vianney are here to accompany you when you have experienced the death of a loved one. We are ready to work with the family and the funeral home to create a celebration of life for your beloved.
Do you need to plan a funeral?
Please contact the SJV Parish Office at (262) 796-3946 to begin the process of celebrating life even amidst the sorrow and tears of loss.
1. Contact the Parish Office
Our Parish Office will help you determine the date and time of the funeral and will reach out on your behalf to our priests.
2. Meet with the Priest
Soon after speaking with our front office, you will meet with the priest who is presiding over the funeral. In this meeting, you will make choices relating to the funeral Mass, such as the readings and music. You may also share with the priest any stories or information about the deceased. A follow-up meeting (in-person or virtually) may be needed with our Director of Music if music choices are not confirmed during the initial meeting.
3. Speak with the Priest before the Funeral
On the day of the funeral, the priest will seek you out to discuss the procedures of transitioning from the visitation to the funeral Mass. The priest will also give you and your family instructions relating to your part in the Mass.
St. John Vianney Parish wishes to support you and your family as you grieve the loss of your loved one. Here are some ways our parish family offers support:
Each year on November 2nd is the Feast of All Souls, commemorating those who have gone before us. Your family will receive an invitation to this Mass of mutual prayer, support and communion with your loved one.
Our St. Vincent de Paul group sponsors a Mass intention for your loved one, as a sign of participation to your grief. They will call you to schedule that Mass and offer a visit.
We have a Grief Ministry with many dedicated ministers, one of which will be sending you a card and other information. We recognize that grieving takes many forms and is different for each person. These ministers can be a sensitive and compassionate presence during this time.
Our Grief Support Group, “Hope in the Midst of Grief,” meets monthly on the fourth Tuesday of each month. It can provide great support and companionship from others who are going through a similar situation. Attendance is always free and registration is not required.
Our faiths tells us we are never alone, and we are never without hope. We live out that belief by being there for each other in these and many ways. God be with you and with all of us as we try to be of service to you.