Program Highlight:
The Lazarus Program

St. Anthony Shrine provides burials for the homeless, the poor, those who die alone or whose family cannot afford funeral services. With the assistance of local funeral directors, such as Dolan Funeral Services, J.S. Waterman & Sons and Casper Funeral Homes, among others, St. Anthony Shrine has provided funeral services and Masses for many of Boston’s most needy.

St. Anthony Shrine offers its services free of charge, including its facilities, Mass of Christian Burial and Meeting Room Space for Funeral Luncheons. In addition, the Shrine provides graves for those who would otherwise be buried in a pauper’s grave, and pays for the cost of opening and closing the grave before and after burial. Other services may include clothing for the deceased and families, flowers and continued support for family and friends.

Relying on many donors, St. Anthony Shrine has had many graves donated to the Lazarus Program by families and those interested in the cause. These graves are located in many Boston area cemeteries, including Mt. Calvary and New Calvary Cemeteries. Though it is gracious that many graves are donated, the need far outweighs the availability of graves. The Lazarus Program’s biggest challenge is finding enough graves available, through donations or purchases, to offer each person a dignified resting place. In addition, Headstones have still yet to be placed on many of the graves, as the cost is very prohibitive.

Open To All
The Lazarus Program is open to ALL who are in need, no matter their faith, poor economic status or standing in life. They have helped many people of different religions. Whether through a dignified and proper burial, or helping families cope with the death of a loved one, St. Anthony Shrine is dedicated to the entire person, in death and in life.

More Information
For more information on the Lazarus Program at St. Anthony Shrine, please contact Gary Maciag at (617) 542-6440 Ext. 251 to request a Lazarus Brochure or on the web at: http://www.stanthonyshrine.org/lazarus.asp

-Adapted from the Lazarus Program website. Thanks to Sue Streeter for sharing this resource.

 

11/09