Life’s Sacred Moments: Weddings, Funerals, and Anointing of the Sick
God’s grace is always with us—in times of joy, in moments of need, and at life’s end. Below you will find information on how to coordinate weddings, funerals, and the Anointing of the Sick at St. Elizabeth, so that together we may celebrate and entrust these sacred moments to the Lord.
Funerals
"We do not want you to be unaware, brothers, about those who have fallen asleep, so that you may not grieve like the rest, who have no hope. For if we believe that Jesus died and rose, so too will God, through Jesus, bring with him those who have fallen asleep." 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14
In the tender moments of bidding farewell to a beloved member of our parish family, the Funeral Rite serves as a sacred ceremony to honor their life, commend their soul to God's mercy, and provide solace to those left behind.
With reverence and compassion, our parish priest guides the community through prayers, scripture readings, and rituals that offer comfort and support to grieving hearts. The Funeral Rite is a testament to the richness of Catholic tradition, offering a space for remembrance, reflection, and prayerful farewell.
While not a sacrament in itself, the Funeral Rite holds profound spiritual significance within our faith community. It is a time to gather in solidarity, to offer prayers for the deceased, and to seek solace in the hope of the resurrection and the promise of eternal life.
To arrange for the Funeral Rite for your loved one, we encourage you to reach out to our parish office. Our pastoral team is here to provide guidance, support, and assistance during this difficult time, ensuring that your loved one is honored with dignity and respect as they journey into God's eternal embrace.
Matrimony
"He said in reply, 'Have you not read that from the beginning the Creator made them male and female and said, 'For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh'? So they are no longer two, but one flesh. Therefore, what God has joined together, no human being must separate.'" - Matthew 19:4-6
Marriage is a beautiful sacrament where two people vow to love and honor each other as long as they both shall live. This sacred union, blessed by God, reflects the commitment and love that Christ has for the Church. As a sacrament, marriage is a source of grace, helping couples to grow in holiness and fidelity throughout their lives together.
To receive the Sacrament of Marriage, you must complete a class to prepare for marriage offered by our parish. This class will help you understand and appreciate marriage as a sacrament and understand what it means to be married in the church. You can coordinate this class with the priest or parish staff.
Once you are eligible for marriage in the church, you will coordinate the date and arrangements with the priest.
Anointing of the Sick
"Is anyone among you sick? He should summon the presbyters of the church, and they should pray over him and anoint [him] with oil in the name of the Lord, and the prayer of faith will save the sick person, and the Lord will raise him up. If he has committed any sins, he will be forgiven." - James 5:14-15
The Anointing of the Sick is a sacrament of healing and comfort, intended for those who are seriously ill, undergoing major surgery, or suffering from the frailty of old age. Administered by a priest, it offers God's grace to strengthen and bring peace during times of suffering.
This sacrament can also be part of the Last Rites, which prepare individuals who are nearing death to meet the Lord. Last Rites typically include confession, anointing, and the Eucharist, providing spiritual nourishment and the assurance of God’s presence in the final journey.
To coordinate this sacrament, please speak with our priest directly. In emergencies or for Last Rites, please use the contact information found on the About Us page to get in touch as soon as possible.