Saint Catherine of Siena — Local services in Town of Mendon

On Tuesday, October 7th, I attended the funeral at St. Catherine of Siena in Mendon. As a practicing Catholic, I was deeply disappointed by the conduct of Father Rob Bourcy during the service.

Father Rob invited the children of the deceased to share a few words about their father. However, while the son was still speaking, Father Rob abruptly interrupted (over the microphone) and asked them to “wrap it up,” citing staff obligations. When the son acknowledged he was concluding, Father Rob went further, stating that the children were “taking advantage of his time.” The daughter, who had prepared heartfelt remarks, was not permitted to speak at all.

This behavior stunned the entire congregation. In a moment meant for compassion and reflection, the family was met with unnecessary harshness and public dismissal. I share this experience not out of anger, but out of concern for others who may be seeking a parish that upholds the dignity and grace expected during such sacred occasions.

I strongly encourage anyone considering St. Catherine of Siena to reflect carefully on this experience. Families deserve respect, especially in...

I am deeply shocked and disappointed by what I witnessed during a funeral service led by Father Bourcy. While the son was giving a heartfelt eulogy for his late father, Father Bourcy abruptly interrupted him, telling him to “wrap it up” and accusing the children of taking advantage of his time. It was an incredibly disrespectful and insensitive thing to say in such a moment of grief. Even more upsetting, the third child—who had prepared to speak—was not allowed to do so at all. Funerals are meant to be a time of compassion, patience, and support for grieving families, but what I saw was the opposite. The family deserved dignity and empathy, not public embarrassment and dismissal. This experience left everyone shocked and upset in a place that would usually provide such comfort. I sincerely hope the church leadership addresses this behavior so that no other family endures something like this on one of the most painful days of...

If you're looking for a more traditional and reverent liturgy, I'd suggest trying another neighboring parish...this was definitely a more "relaxed" Mass.

That being said, this is is a warm and welcoming parish community. I attended a weekday morning Mass. Please note: weekday Masses are in the chapel, connected to and on the right side of the church. The chapel does not have kneelers, and has choir seating, so you're not facing the altar.

The community for the weekday Mass was strong and excited to be there, which is always encouraging to see.

I always try to be as charitable as possible with any critiques of a church, but I felt it important to be as straightforward and honest as possible so visitors can choose a parish that fits their needs. I much preferred every other parish I attended during my visit to the area. Feel free to visit my profile to see some of those...