'Tip' for priest/deacon for burial of miscarried child

[Kevin_Andrew]

My wife had a miscarriage, and we had the child’s remains buried at the Catholic cemetery. My pastor offered to come do the appropriate ceremony (not a funeral, strictly speaking, since the child obviously wasn’t baptized - I don’t recall what he called it). Our newly ordained deacon was also there (we weren’t expecting that; I don’t know if the priest invited him, or the cemetery does it automatically).

My question is this - should I ‘tip’ the priest and deacon? Clearly, I missed the chance to do so on the day of, so I’d be sending them cards (which I am doing either way). I know giving the priest a ‘stipend’ for a funeral is standard practice, but I don’t know about this ceremony.

Also, if I should, I don’t know what would be the appropriate amount for each of them. Thoughts?

 

[TheLittleLady]

You may give them a gift, but, it is not expected nor required.

The parish secretary can tell you what is the traditional amount in your area. Another option is simply treat them to dinner.

 

[Tis_Bearself]

A deacon did a memorial service for my husband in the state where he worked, because I had the actual funeral several hours away in his home state where his family lived. I did tip the deacon but he gave it to the parish for Masses to be said for my husband. Which was very nice of him.