When people come to a funeral service or Mass, the desire is that they will find consolation and strength at this emotionally difficult time. We are focused on providing comfort and courage for family and friends who are mourning the death of their loved one. If you would like to arrange a funeral or memorial service here at St. Josaphat Church, please call 773-327-8955 to speak with a priest.
Learn more about funerals in the Catholic tradition as outlined by the United States Council of Catholic Bishops (USCCB):
Funeral Home
Ask your funeral director to contact us directly and we'll work out the details. If you have not yet chosen a funeral home, may we recommend:
Lakeview Funeral Home, (773) 472-6300, 1458 W Belmont Ave, Chicago
Jaeger Funeral Home, (773) 545-1320, 3526 N Cicero Ave, Chicago
What is the cost of a funeral at St. Josaphat?
A parish exists to celebrate the sacraments for the people in its community. While a funeral is not a sacrament, burying the dead is a corporal work of mercy, and we are honored to assist you. We do not impose a fee, but we kindly ask that you consider a $500 contribution to help cover the costs associated with the parish:
- Presider fee ($65)
- Accompanist fee ($150)
- Cantor fee (min. $125)
- Altar servers ($20)
- Sacristan ($30-$45)
- Recordkeeping and administration
- Church maintenance and utilities
Some funeral homes may collect this contribution on your behalf and forward it to us as a courtesy, helping to ease your burdens during this difficult time.
Optional music fees
Music selections are coordinated with our Music Director, Joe Labozetta. Additional instruments and cantors can be arranged for an additional fee. Please contact Joe at
[email protected].
FAQs
Visitation can be arranged at the church for one hour prior to the funeral or service.
Our parking lot is located behind the church with the entrance from Wayne Street and can accommodate up to 34 cars. Two additional handicapped spots are available and a handicap church entrance is near the lot.
We have tables and easels for displaying flowers and photographs, please let the sacristan or priest know your needs.
Food and beverages are not allowed in the church but you are welcome to provide and offer small bottles of water in the vestibule at the Southport entrance if needed.
Gratuities are optional and at your discretion.
Is my funeral contribution tax deductible? Please be aware that your contribution is considered a "Stole Fee" and is not tax deductible:
A “Stole Fee” refers to money given to a cleric for the performance of sacramental functions ie: baptisms, weddings, funerals. The IRS does not classify these payments as tax-free “gifts” because the rendering of a service motivated the payment. It does not matter that the cleric requires no payment for the service, nor does it matter that some people give nothing under similar circumstances. Stole Fees are considered earnings subject to Federal Income Tax and Social Security Tax.