When a loved one dies, the funeral home generally contacts the parish office to schedule the funeral. One of the parish priests or staff members will visit with the family to help select Scripture readings, music and the other details for the funeral Mass. These links are provided to help with the planning. For more information, contact the parish office at 217- 359-4224.
- Old Testament Readings for Funerals
- New Testament Readings for Funerals
- Funeral Music Suggestions
- Funeral Intercessions
ST. MATTHEW POLICY ON EULOGIES/WORDS OF REMEMBRANCE
It can be a powerful part of the healing process to share memories and stories of our deceased love ones. In the past, these have sometimes been shared during the Funeral Mass. Many speakers would get overwhelmed with emotion or even the anxiety of speaking from the pulpit. Eulogies would also unduly extend the length of Mass leaving guests, especially non-Catholics, uncomfortable. We encourage words of remembrance, but have found that these are best shared outside of the actual Funeral Mass.
While we no longer allow words of remembrance during the Funeral Mass, the visitation the evening before the funeral is often a perfect time to share thoughts and stories. The luncheon after the Funeral has also proven to be ideal for multiple speakers to share poems, stories, and reflections. Our staff can also help set up a photo-slide show or even videos to be shown during the luncheon in our parish hall.
VIEWINGS AT ST. MATTHEW
We are happy to hold a time for both family and friends to pay their respects more personally to the deceased prior to the funeral Mass. While many use the word visitation for this time, we prefer to use the word viewing. Since the viewing takes place in the sacred space of our Church not only is it impossible to offer food and drink for the family, many other typical comforts of a visitation (spaces for visiting, space for large photo and flower arrangements, private space for family accommodations) are not possible. Viewings at St. Matthew are a time for prayer and consolation for the family. If you would like to hold a more traditional visitation we have many funeral homes in the Champaign area.