The Saint Joseph of Arimathea Pallbearer Ministry was established to:
- Practice the Works of Mercy by offering pallbearer services free of charge to those in need, especially the poor and the elderly.
- Affirm the value and dignity of human life.
- Represent the community at a person’s final commendation.
- Commemorate and pray for the dead.
The Arimathea Ministry was founded in the spirit of Saint Joseph of Arimathea, who assisted with the burial of Jesus. It is our belief that no person should die without being prayed for or mourned.
In the spirit of St. Joseph, the Arimathea Society is dedicated to burying those of need with dignity and respect. When an in-need person is identified by an area funeral home, the school is contacted to arrange for pallbearers to serve at the individual’s funeral. Typically the students attend the funeral liturgy and then travel to the cemetery to serve as pallbearers and carry the casket to the grave. After burial the students usually spend a few minutes in prayer at the gravesite.
For more information, contact James Sandstrom.