Funeral Ministry

The death of a loved one is a stressful time. At St. Andrew the Apostle we invite you to honor your loved one with a Mass of Christian Burial and help your family to mourn.

The following information is intended to be of help to you in planning a beautiful and dignified funeral Mass. One of our Funeral Planning Ministers can assist you in this process. May God bless you and be with you in your time of grief. 

Funeral Fees:

For more information on funeral fees at St. Andrew the Apostle; call or email our Coordinator of Funerals, 480-899-1990 ext. 158; email [email protected].

Must we do all three steps: a vigil, a Mass, and a committal?
While recommended, you may opt not to have a vigil, or to schedule the committal for another time or place.

Can the funeral be celebrated without a Mass?
Yes, in special circumstances a funeral service may be celebrated outside of Mass.

What does the Catholic Church say about cremation?
The Church permits cremation. The preference is that the cremation would occur after the funeral Mass, but it is also possible to have an urn containing the cremains present at Mass rather than the deceased’s body.

What is the difference between a “vigil” and a “rosary”?
The Vigil Service is an official rite of the Church. In the past, the vigil (or wake) consisted primarily of a time of visitation and the prayers of a Rosary. Because so many non-Catholics attend, the Church has developed a Vigil service based on Scripture and prayer. Families may opt to have a Rosary prayed at the end of the Vigil.

Drop In Bereavement Support Group Meetings
Our Drop In Bereavement Support Group takes place on the last Thursday of each month at 7pm in Room A. We gather, pray, share, and support one another. There is no charge or registration. You are welcome to attend regardless of what stage of grief you are experiencing. Please check the bulletin each month for a reminder of the date: due to church events or holidays the date can change. 
2023 Dates: 8/31, 9/28, 10/26, 11/30, 12/14
2024 Dates: 1/25, 2/29, 3/21, 4/25, 5/30

Learn about “Seasons of Hope” Adult Bereavement Support Group here.