While the funeral home is typically the first contact when making funeral arrangements, St. Gertrude’s is privileged to assist in guiding family and friends of the deceased through the process of funeral arrangements. We Christians believe that death is not an end, but a beginning. The Funeral Mass especially expresses this faith in Jesus' victory over death and our personal share in that resurrection. The funeral home typically contacts the rectory office to begin Mass arrangements.

Memorial Masses, which are done at a later date, are celebrated at the request of the family/friends of the deceased. Preparations are the same as a Funeral Mass. Please use the attachments below and contact the rectory office for arrangements. We will have a minister of consolation get in touch with you to assist you with the process.

 The Funeral Planning Guide contains music selections and readings that can be chosen by the family/friends of the deceased. Upon completion by the family/friends, the Funeral Planning Guide supplies the church with information necessary to prepare for Mass, such as the contact person(s), selected readings and music, and details about the life of the deceased so the priest can personalize the service.

Our clergy and staff and ministry of consolation are here for you if you need us to help with choosing the readings or music. Please feel free to ask questions or if you have any concerns. If at all possible, return the Guide to the Parish Office by email, fax or in person 48 hours prior to the funeral (call the office at 516.628.1113 for the up-to-date email or fax to: 516.628.9032) 

Rest assured that the prayers of the parish are with you in this time of grief.  

Funeral Planning Guide