The Order of Christian Funerals (Funeral Mass)
The planning of a Funeral Mass (for baptized Catholics) and Memorials (for baptized non-Catholics) is an important experience of remembering, celebrating, mourning, and giving of a life over to God. This liturgy is a beautiful way to ritualize our belief in ways that are meaningful and spiritual, that one’s life has purpose on this earth and in the eternal one.
Since the Chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas is not a parish, we are permitted to minister to alumni, students, staff and faculty. During this important time, we are happy to offer the hospitality of our chapel and Campus Ministry staff.
Further Details:
- The total fee for a funeral $1000. (For a memorial, $500.) This fee includes but is not limited to: the use of the chapel for the liturgy (and visitation), reserved drop off parking, an organist, cantor, and sacristan, and up to 175 worship aids. The fee does not include a clergy stipend. Payments must be made online; a link will be provided.
- Funerals may be scheduled Monday through Friday at 10:00AM; visitations (if desired) are scheduled at 9:00AM. Funeral dates must be planned around the university’s chapel events and sacrament schedule.
- Campus parking ramps for a small fee (and street parking) are the only parking option for funerals. Frey Hall parking ramp allows for indoor parking and tunnel to the chapel.
- A liturgy planning outline will be provided for those involved with planning the funeral, along with all the selections (readings, music) one can choose for the Order of Christian Funerals. Family members are encouraged to take an active role in the liturgy. (An outline is also provided for memorials.)
- Campus Ministry will provide our professional musicians (organist, pianist, cantor) for the funeral.
- Please obtain the date and parish location of your deceased loved one’s baptism.
- Livestreaming may be provided, for an additional fee, if staff is available on the funeral date. Note the chapel has limited Wi-Fi.
- Please provide frames or easels, if desired, to display photos. Folding tables (but not tablecloths) can be arranged with Campus Ministry if requested in advance.
- Reception sites and catering can be arranged through: U of St. Thomas Receptions & Catering.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact:
Christina Crow
Sacramental Coordinator
cmcrow@stthomas.edu