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Pastoral Care & Support
Funerals & Bereavement
Walking with you through loss, celebrating the life of your loved one, and offering ongoing support as you grieve.
Our Commitment to You
A Dignified Farewell in Faith
The death of a loved one is one of life's most difficult experiences. At the Parish of Our Lady of the Way, we are here to support you with compassion, dignity, and faith from the first phone call through the months and years that follow.
Our priests and pastoral team will walk beside you as you plan a funeral that honours the life of your loved one and brings comfort to family and friends. Whether you seek a traditional Requiem Mass, a funeral service, or simply guidance in your grief, we are here for you.
Two Church Venues
St Mary's North Sydney and St Francis Xavier Lavender Bay
Ongoing Support
Bereavement groups, counselling referrals, remembrance Masses
Step by Step
Arranging a Funeral
Our team will guide you through each step with care and compassion, ensuring your loved one receives a dignified farewell.
Contact the Parish
Call the parish office on (02) 8918 4101 as soon as possible. Our team will guide you through the next steps and connect you with a priest.
Choose a Funeral Director
The parish works with Gregory & Carr and Maurer Family Funerals. Your funeral director will coordinate with the church on your behalf.
Meet with the Priest
The priest will meet with the family to plan the funeral liturgy, select readings, music, and discuss the life of your loved one.
Plan the Liturgy
Choose Scripture readings, hymns, and prayers. Our Music Director can assist with selecting appropriate music for the service.
The Funeral Mass
Celebrate the life of your loved one in the Eucharist. Family and friends gather to pray, remember, and commend them to God.
After the Funeral
The parish offers ongoing pastoral support, bereavement groups, and remembrance Masses to help you through the grieving process.
Funeral Fees
A transparent breakdown of costs. Financial hardship assistance is available — please speak with us confidentially.
Church Fee
Standard fee for use of the church
Planned Giving Family
Reduced rate for active Planned Giving families
Priest Stipend
Suggested offering for the celebrant
Music & Organist
Contact Music Director for quote
Audio/Visual
Live streaming and recording (optional)
Fees are payable to the parish office. Your funeral director will coordinate payment on your behalf.
Music & Audio/Visual
Our Music Director and AV team will help create a beautiful and reverent service.
What We Offer
- Organ and piano accompaniment
- Guidance selecting hymns and psalms
- Soloist or choir arrangements
- Live streaming for distant family ($150)
- Recording of the service available
You Are Not Alone
Pastoral Support After Loss
Grief does not end after the funeral. Our parish offers ongoing support to help you navigate the journey of bereavement.
Bereavement Support Group
A monthly gathering for those who have lost a loved one. Share your journey with others who understand, in a safe and compassionate space.
2nd Thursday of each month, 7:00pm
Ron Dyer Centre, 42 Ridge St
Contact the parish office to join
Grief Counselling Referral
The parish can connect you with professional grief counsellors and CatholicCare services for one-on-one or family support.
By appointment
Various locations
Call (02) 8918 4101 for referral
Monthly Remembrance Mass
A special Mass offered on the first Friday of each month for all who have died. Families are invited to light a candle and pray together.
First Friday, 12:00 noon
St Mary's Church, North Sydney
All welcome, no booking required
Trusted Partners
Funeral Directors
The parish works closely with these local funeral directors who understand our churches and liturgical requirements.
Common Questions
Funeral FAQs
We Are Here for You
Funeral Enquiry
Submit an enquiry and our pastoral team will respond within 24 hours. For urgent matters, please call (02) 8918 4101.
We Are Here for You, Day or Night
If you have lost a loved one, please do not hesitate to reach out. Our pastoral team is available to support you at any hour.
Mass Times
View all Mass times across our three churches, including Sunday, weekday and Saturday Vigil.
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Get Directions
Find our churches, parish office, and parking information for North Sydney and Lavender Bay.