Upon the death of a loved one, a funeral home must be called. They will explain your options and procedures.

If a Mass is requested, the funeral home will make arrangements with the Church of your choice. They will provide the church with all information needed to be recorded in the church records.

MEMORIAL MASS
Should you desire a Church Mass at a later date for the deceased, this would be considered a Memorial Mass. You would be responsible for selecting a church and making the arrangements.

FUNERAL MASS
When a person is cremated and no mass is celebrated at that time, you can arrange for a Funeral Mass in a church of your choice. The urn would be brought to the church and blessed during the Mass. This mass would have to be recorded in the church’s registrar and you would need a certificate from the funeral home.

GRAVESIDE SERVICE
When a person passes away who lives out of town and wishes to be buried in his hometown, a Graveside Service can be held at the cemetery. The Priest does the blessing and service there. A copy of the Clergy Record must be given to the priest.

SERVICE AT A FUNERAL HOME
A priest is available to perform a funeral service at a funeral home.
At St. Gerard’s, a coordinator will work closely with the family to make this difficult time easier to deal with. We also like the family to participate in the Mass.
Please call our Rectory at 973-595-8446 for more detailed information.

Bereavement and Funerals

SWEET 16 OR QUINCENERA MASSES
These are handled just like a regular Mass. Please call our Rectory for more detailed information.

If you have any questions, please fill out this form and send to us.
A priest or a representative of St. Gerard will respond to you promptly.