Parishes across Longford are being invited to develop a Funeral Ministry team to support families through the loss of a loved one.
The Diocesan Parish Pastoral Council is offering three nights of training for parishes interested in establishing a team, with a minimum of four people to be trained in each parish.
The initiative aims to equip parish volunteers with the skills and preparation needed to provide practical and pastoral support to families at a difficult time.
Members would be trained in how to support families throughout the bereavement and funeral process, which would include meeting with the bereaved family, preparing the liturgy for the Funeral Mass or service, leading prayers in the presence of the deceased in the family home, funeral home or church, and accompanying the family during the Funeral Mass.
Training will take place at The Family Centre, 43 St Mel's Rd, Townparks, Longford, at 7pm on Wednesday, September 30, Wednesday, October 7 and Wednesday, October 14.
For full course information, registration and booking details, visit www.ardaghdiocese.org/training