FUNERAL GUIDANCE
As you consider these important arrangements, please know you are held in the prayerful care of our parish. Planning for the end of life is an act of love—an expression of hope, faith, and responsibility for those you hold close to your heart.
The Church teaches us that our earthly life is a precious gift, and that our final rest is not an ending but a passage into the fullness of God’s presence.
May the Lord guide your heart with wisdom, calm your spirit with His peace, and remind you that you do not walk this path alone. We are here to support you, and God’s promise of eternal life remains our constant source of strength.
STEP BY STEP GUIDE TO COORDINATE A FUNERAL
When a loved one passes on, it can feel overwhelming to know what to do next. We're here to offer compassion, clarity, and support as you take each step.
1. Notify the necessary parties
Your first step is to contact the funeral home of your choice. They will guide you through immediate needs and help you begin the process of planning a funeral Mass or rosary service with our Parish as you desire.
2. Determine cemetery arrangements
Families have two options for burial at Olney Cemetery:
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Catholic Section: If you wish to bury your loved one in the Catholic section, the plot is purchased directly from St. Mary’s Parish. Please click on the link below to see details and contact the office at 541.276.3615 to begin this process.
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Other Sections of Olney Cemetery: If you prefer a plot outside the Catholic section, you will purchase it directly from the City of Pendleton. They can be reached at 541.276.8100.
3. Schedule the funeral rosary and Mass
Contact the parish office to schedule the rosary, the funeral Mass, or both. Father Jose and our staff will help you choose dates and times, select readings, and coordinate any needs via a meeting with with Fr. Jose. We approach this planning with gentleness and respect for your family’s needs.
4. Decide on a luncheon
If your family would like a funeral luncheon in the Parish Hall, the office can help you explore available options via our Luncheon Committee. This gathering can be a comforting way to share memories and support one another directly following your service(s).
5. Choose whether you want a graveside service
After the funeral Mass, families may choose to have a graveside service.
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If you wish to have clergy present, St. Mary’s will gladly arrange for a priest or deacon.
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All burial logistics—including scheduling the burial and confirming the opening and closing of the grave—must be coordinated directly with Olney Cemetery through the City of Pendleton. Your funeral home staff is equipped to help with this step.
6. Continue to lean on your parish community
Grief does not end with the funeral. St. Mary’s remains here for you with prayer, pastoral care, and community support in the days and months ahead.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: What happens after I purchase a plot in the Catholic section of Olney Cemetery?
Once you have the certificate of ownership and need a funeral service, you may schedule a complete Catholic funeral service through St. Mary’s parish. We are here to support you spiritually and pastorally as you prepare for this sacred moment. Please reach out to the parish office at 541.276.3615.
Q: Who arranges the burial itself?
Families and/or funeral homes work directly with the City of Pendleton at Olney Cemetery to finalize all burial details. This includes confirming the date, coordinating the opening and closing of the grave, and addressing any logistical questions.
Q: Can we have a graveside service?
Yes. Families may choose to have a graveside service. The complete Catholic funeral service consists of a rosary, funeral Mass, and graveside service. This is arranged through Olney Cemetery, and our clergy are available to preside. To schedule, please let the parish office know you'd like a graveside service with a priest.
Q: What role does St. Mary’s play in the process?
St. Mary’s provides spiritual care, liturgical preparation, and pastoral support. While we do not coordinate burial logistics, we walk with you through the parts of the journey that belong to the parish and faith—planning the funeral Mass, offering prayer, and being present with your family.
SCHEDULED FUNERALS
*There are currently no scheduled funerals
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