Bereavement Ministry
Our bereavement ministry will serve families who have lost a loved one to death. The members in this ministry are trained to help give comfort and support to the grieving families at St. Stephen Parish. We are here to give you our time, listen and hear your thoughts, and share your tears.
"Blessed are they that mourn, for they shall be comforted." (Matt 5:4)
Our Aim
Our bereavement ministry seeks to comfort those who have lost a loved one.
Our Staff
bereavement@ststephenvc.com
How We Serve
Support Grieving Families
Our bereavement ministry features a six part, bilingual program that supports grieving parish members through their first year of grief.
Bereavement Angels
Our members, "Bereavement Angels", provide phone calls to the bereaved, write our "Grief's Companion Journal", and send Mass cards to let the bereaved know they are not forgotten, that prayers are being said for them, and that we care. During holidays, we send out special holiday cards, the angels make additional phone calls, and educational fliers are mailed.
Grief Support Groups
We also offer grief support groups either through our parish or through the community.
Trained Volunteers
Our "Bereavement Angels" are volunteers who have a calling to help those who grieve. They receive monthly training that is provided by licensed professionals - who have over 60 years cumulative experience in counseling the bereaved. Our team coordinates with the parishes funeral director to provide seamless support.
How You Can Help
Not everyone is called to provide support to those who grieve, but if you are interested, contact us to learn more about this very rewarding ministry.
Interested in Giving Online?
Many of our parishioners find it very convenient to process their giving and monetary contributions online. These donations go a long way to help the people at St. Stephen Parish serve our community.