Lazarus ministers are members of the parish community who reach out with the compassion of Christ to people in the midst of grief at the death of a loved one.  Ministers help the family with preparation for the Mass of Christian Resurrection, the selection of appropriate music, selection of the liturgical readings, and explain the various ways the family can be active in the celebration of the  Mass.
Lazarus ministers also attend the wake to represent the parish family with their presence and prayer.  They speak with the family to see in what way they or the parish can be present in this difficult time of mourning and grief.