"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

Planning a Funeral Mass or Service

Funeral planning at St. John Chrysostom typically takes place during a meeting by the family, parish pastoral associate Theresa White, and the priest or deacon who will preside over the funeral rite.

Please contact the Parish House (610-874-3418) to notify us of your loved one's death, so that we may pray for him or her and make an appointment with you to plan your liturgy.

Funeral liturgy planning entails a number of decisions on Scripture readings, hymns and other liturgical elements. To assist you in this process, we invite you to browse, review and reflect upon the many suggested Funeral Readings and Funeral Music options, available under the links to the left.

You are also invited to download a Funeral Planning Sheet to assist you. This is a fillable form. After you have completed it on your computer, be sure to save it. Then print it out to bring with you to your appointment. You may also print out the form, fill it out by hand, and bring it with you.

Please note that no funeral planning is finalized until after your appointment.