The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit. (Psalm 34:18)
As Christians we believe that those who die are gathered to God and ushered into a new life through Christ. The burial rites of the Church provide an opportunity for family and friends to acknowledge faith and hope in the midst of loss, and to commend those we love to God’s never-failing care.
All rites and rituals must be carried out according to the Canons of the Armenian Apostolic Orthodox Church and are subject to the approval of the Pastor. Families can make necessary arrangements with the funeral home of their choice. However, it is recommended that the Pastor be present when arrangements are being made in order to expedite the process and avoid possible confusion. The Pastor may be contacted at 651-603-1940.
According to Canon Law, no funeral may take place on Saturday afternoons after 3:00 PM or on Sundays. Again, all efforts should be made to contact the Pastor before any arrangements are made.
Also, no lay person may speak or give eulogies in the sanctuary during either Home Service or Church Service at the Graveside Service. Instead, lay people should speak at the funeral home or the memorial meal (Hokejash). In accordance with church protocol, in order for a priest other than the Pastor to participate in services, the request must be made by the family to the Pastor who will then extend the invitation to the requested priest. Please consult the Pastor before making arrangements of this kind.
It is recommended that a brief biography of the deceased be provided to the Pastor at least one day prior to the funeral.
In the case of Cremation and/or suicide the Pastor must be informed prior to making funeral arrangements. Since such situations are outside the Canons of the Armenian Church, instructions must be received from the ecclesiastical authority (Primate).
All the Services and Sacraments in the Armenian Church are FREE (Matthew 10:8). However, if families want to make a donation to the Church and the Pastor it is according to the individual wishes of the family as an expression of gratitude and appreciation. In case if organist or deacon are requested by the family there may be fees involved for their and service since they are either volunteers or associated with the Church.
We will be thankful if you choose St. Sahag Armenian Church for IN LIEU OF FLOWERS donations. If the family chooses St. St. Sahag for IN LIEU OF FLOWERS donations, the Parish will receive these donations directly from family and friends . If the donations are made at the funeral home, the funeral director will forward the donations to St. Sahag.