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What To Do When a Death Occurs
When death occurs and we struggle to understand reality and the hope of resurrection, we are faced with the need to make funeral arrangements. There are three areas that require attention:
- Liturgical and Spiritual
- Funeral Arrangements
- Services of a Catholic Community
Your parish priest/pastoral ministers are prepared to help you with the liturgical and spiritual matters. The funeral director and the Catholic Cemetery can assist in formulating funeral arrangements. While the funeral home might need to be contacted immediately following the death, the first call when actually making the funeral arrangements should be to your parish. The funeral director will coordinate with the parish and the Catholic Cemetery staff the liturgical events, (vigil, funeral Mass, committal).
Cremation
While the Church prefers burial or entombment, after the manner of Christ's own burial, it does not forbid cremation. The New Code of Canon Law (Can. 1176 #3) states: "The Church earnestly recommends that the pious custom of burying the bodies of the dead be observed; it does not, however, forbid cremation unless it has been chosen for reasons which are contrary to Christian teaching."
Pre-Need Planning
The time surrounding the death of a loved one is difficult, yet it can be a deeply enriching and faith-filled moment. Pre-need planning allows the families to make decisions free of emotional stress caused at the time of death. Many liturgical decisions can be made in advanceof immediate need, e.g., appropriate readings, music, etc. You are encouraged to purchaseburial space and services in advance of death. Counselors are available to assist you at your convenience.
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