The Bereavement Ministry provides support for families at their time of grieving. A member of this ministry visits the family as soon as feasible to coordinate arrangements for the funeral or memorial Mass. The family is assisted in the selection of readings and music according to church guidelines. Participation of family and friends in the liturgy is encouraged, and they are guided in their role.
Members of the Music Ministry are contacted, and their role at the service is reviewed. With the assistance of the office staff, a printed program is prepared for distribution at the service. All facets of the service are coordinated with the funeral director, and the plans are presented to the presiding priest to assist him and the family. The appropriate information necessary for church records regarding the deceased is obtained.
Anyone having an interest in ministering to our parishioners who suffer the loss of a loved one is encouraged to join this small, but dedicated ministry. Training is provided.
Coordinator: Pat Pettinato - 255-0908
This ministry provides a safe, confidential outlet for the bereaved to express their feelings among non-judgmental individuals in a compassionate environment. The group meets on the second Thursday of each month. The meetings are open to all who are bereaved, no matter how long. Each meeting has a prepared program; however, each meeting focuses on the needs of the participants. All newly bereaved receive visits or phone calls; every effort is made to ensure that the bereaved do not feel isolated. The Diocese of Orlando provides training and updated programs for facilitators. Material from the National Catholic Council for the Bereaved, Hospice, and other organizations is also used.
Coordinator: Maria Riley - 631-1538
Ministers to the Sick (MTS) are lay people who commit themselves to the visitation of the sick, shut-ins and their caregivers. This commitment can be viewed more as a vocation than a means of volunteering. Ministers to the Sick are approved Eucharistic Ministers who represent the St. John the Evangelist Community through their visits. Attentive listening to the cares and concerns of our brothers and sisters is an important part of visitation, along with prayer and the Eucharist.
Coordinator: Deacon Jim Seidel - 637-9650
5655 Stadium Parkway

Viera, FL 32940
Office Hours: M-F 8:30am - 4:00pm
Phone: (321)637-9650
Fax: (321)637-9651
Email: office@StJohnViera.Org