Thanks be to God!

08-22-2021Weekly ReflectionFr. John Sims Baker

Always and for everything! In this case, I am particularly grateful to God for the relatively smooth opening to the school year. Running a school is a blessing and a responsibility for Saint Rose Parish. I believe that Sr. Catherine Marie and our school faculty and staff have done very well in looking after the welfare and education of the children in challenging circumstances. The school has been the testing ground at times for how we put various procedures into practice during the pandemic. They have done so once again for the opening of school. As promised, the Catholic Schools Office of the Diocese of Nashville has reviewed the mask policy announced for the beginning of the year and has adjusted it to allow for parents to decide about masks for their children. The situation at all of the diocesan schools will be monitored daily through a conference call of leaders from every school. I am sure that we can expect further adjustments as the needs dictate.

READ MORE

Considerations for a Funeral and Burial

08-15-2021Weekly ReflectionFr. John Sims Baker

Unlike weddings and most other sacramental events, funerals usually need to be scheduled in a short timeframe. We try to be as flexible and accommodating as possible but there are limitations to the timing of funerals. This is why it is necessary to involve the church office before a funeral time is set or announced. In the first place, a funeral Mass cannot be celebrated on Sunday and a few other days of the year. The office staff know when funerals can be planned for the church. Special requests can also be made, although those requests might take more time. When you call the office, the staff can provide you with readings to choose from for the funeral, as well as guidance about arrangements for music. At Saint Rose, we are able to provide clergy for a funeral service only at the church and/or graveside. We cannot provide clergy for a funeral service at a funeral home or other location. We are happy to provide clergy for a vigil/rosary service before the funeral itself as we are able.

READ MORE

Weddings and Funerals

08-08-2021Weekly ReflectionFr. John Sims Baker

Weddings and funerals are not much alike, other than being important ceremonies celebrated in the church. Even on a practical level, weddings usually have a long time of planning and preparation leading up to the celebration whereas funerals need to be planned and finalized in a short time. If you are planning to get married, please contact the church office to set up an initial appointment at least six months in advance. This time is needed for your marriage preparation, as well as for scheduling the ceremony itself.

READ MORE