The Gospel of John (19:38-42) relates the story of Joseph of Arimathea, a disciple of Jesus, who after the death of Jesus claimed his body from Pilate. Along with Nicodemus he prepared it for burial according to the Jewish custom and provided a new tomb for the interment of Jesus’ body. While today these physical needs are met by funeral directors, the celebration of the new spiritual life of the deceased needs to be done in community. From the example of Joseph of Arimathea flows a ministry of love known simply as Arimatheans.
The Arimatheans consists of a group of caring parishioners wishing to support their brothers and sisters in Christ who have experienced the loss of a loved one. They show that support by attending the funeral as representatives of our faith community. We, at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, have regular instances where there are very few or no family members to attend the funeral liturgy. It is our belief that no member of our faith community should grieve alone.
A phone calling chain notifies the Arimatheans when a funeral is scheduled. If the Arimathean is available, he/she simply attend and sit with the other Arimatheans as a show of support.
If you are interested in becoming an Arimathean, please call the parish office at 941-966-0807 and speak with Darwin Reeck.