Consolation Ministry

The death of someone we love is one of the most difficult and painful losses we face as human beings.  With broken hearts, we turn to the task of commending the one we have loved to the embrace of the God who loved him or her into being, and who now welcomes the person home to live anew in union with God and all those who have gone before us.  As Christians, we face the reality and the anguish of loss and grief, but confidently trust that God's love and the love and support of family, friends and our faith community will sustain us.

St. Bernard's Consolation Ministers are trained to minister in the name of the parish community to a family at the time of death.  Our Consolation Ministry team accompanies families on the journey by assist in planning the funeral services, providing a personalized service booklet, and even baking a cake.

The funeral director and Consolation Ministry companion will give you everything you need and guide you through it.  These resources are also available here for you or loved ones who do not live nearby to access:

People who have experienced and worked through the experience of grief, and have the gifts and talents to accompany others on the journey are invited to explore the possibility of becoming a Consolation Ministry companion.  Other Consolation Ministry services include preparation of service booklets and cake-baking.  If interested, please contact Diane Vella at 516-731-4220 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .