THE LAZARUS MINISTRY

The Lazarus Ministry of Our Lady of the Cape is a ministry providing comfort and support to the bereaved since 1996.

There are many facets to the ministry:

Companions
   Members of the ministry assist families in planning the Funeral  Liturgy, attending the Wake Service and Funeral and provide a follow-up support-contact for the bereaved.

 Come Walk With Me
    This is a six-week grief-support seminar held in the Spring and  Fall to assist families in the grief process and is open to all faiths.

 Walking Together
    Upon  completion of the seminar, participants meet on the second  Sunday of the month to support one another as they go through their journey.

  Martha Ministry
    If the family wishes,  the Parish Center is used for a collation after  the Funeral Mass and members of the parish have volunteered to help with this endeavor.

  Mass of Remembrance
    On the Sunday closest to All Souls Day in November, a Mass of Remembrance is celebrated: whereby the name of each person is read and a family member is invited to light a candle and receive a flower to recognize the loss.

  Funeral Planning
    During the Summer, a pre-planning of a Funeral Liturgy is held in the Parish Center for those who wish to participate and have an active part in planning their Liturgy.  A parishioner may, at any time,  request to meet with a member of the ministry to prepare their Funeral Liturgy.

We of the Lazarus Ministry have been privileged to be the instrument that God has chosen us to be as we assist those who are experiencing the death of a loved one.  It is very fullfilling to be a witness to the faith and growth of each person in each and every one of these segments.  We, as lay ministers, experience such humility to have the opportunity to be a servant to those who are in need during this sacred and healing time of life.

As we are all on this journey, we represent each and every one of you at Our Lady of the Cape when we tend to those who are grieving the loss of  loved one.  We ask for your prayers as we continue to be God's stewards.

In his love,

Jacquie Cooper
Chairperson