Arimathean Ministry

“Now there was a virtuous and righteous man named Joseph who, though he was a member of the council, had not consented to their plan of action. He came from the Jewish town of Arimathea and was awaiting the kingdom of God. He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus. After he had taken the body down, he wrapped it in a linen cloth and laid him in a rock-hewn tomb in which no one had yet been buried. It was the day of preparation, and the sabbath was about to begin. The women who had come from Galilee with him followed behind, and when they had seen the tomb and the way in which his body was laid in it, they returned and prepared spices and perfumed oils. Then they rested on the sabbath according to the commandment.” ~ Luke 23:50-56

The name Arimatheans comes from St. Joseph of Arimathea, who tended to our Lord after his death. Arimatheans are caring parishioners who attend Funeral and Memorial Masses as representatives of the Sacred Heart parish community.

To lead those who serve as Arimatheans, there is a team of Funeral Coordinators whose responsibility is to help the grieving family with the funeral liturgy. The coordinator and Arimatheans provide spiritual support for those who have suffered the loss of a loved one and let them know they are not alone in their grief and prayer. There will be a coordinator assigned to each Funeral or Memorial Mass to direct those serving and ensure a warm and welcoming environment.

Arimatheans serve in some of the following positions:

1. Hospitality before, during, and after the Funeral liturgy to help family and friends of the deceased by directing them to the restrooms and pews, and by providing other assistance.
2. Lector if the family does not have someone to do the Readings.
3. Extraordinary Minister to assist the priest with the distribution of Holy Communion, if already an EM in the parish.
4. Sacristan to assist the priest in setting up for Mass, lighting candles, and assist with end of Mass duties.
5. If there is no altar boy to assist the priest during the liturgy.

When a Funeral or Memorial Mass is scheduled, the Funeral Coordinator will contact the Arimatheans to obtain the assistance needed for each particular liturgy. These communications will come through our online ministry system, Ministry Scheduler Pro.

If you are interested in serving in this vital ministry, please contact Mrs. Mary Nuaman at [email protected]