Group Discussions
A Meditation on Death by Bishop Donald Hying
(3:49) – In the wake of the COVID pandemic, Bishop Hying shares his experience of the death of loved ones. The raising of Jairus’ daughter (Mk 5:21ff) illuminates the power… Read More
Lesson Planning for Adults
To help adults in the RCIA program understand the traditions of the Catholic Burial rite.
Understanding Symbols in the Catholic Funeral Mass
Many symbols are used during the funeral liturgy reflect the sacrament of Baptism — by which we share in Christ’s death and Resurrection. At the funeral Mass, we offer worship,… Read More
Coping With the Death of Your Loved One
How we process a loss is a unique experience. No one grieves in the same way. There are many different factors that influence how a person will grieve. Contrary to… Read More
Sacrament of the Sick
The Anointing of the Sick, formerly called Extreme Unction or Last Rites, is explicitly referred to in Scripture. Since the very beginning, the Church has extended the healing ministry of… Read More
Hospice Care, End of Life Issues, and Advance Directives
Hospice care is a family-centered approach to pain management at the end stages of life that includes a primary caregiver, physician, nurses, home health aides, social workers, counselors, bereavement services,… Read More
Understanding Catholic Funerals – The Vigil, The Church Service, The Committal, Cremation
As Catholics, we fulfill our obligations to the deceased, with whom we remain connected, by lovingly following the rituals of the Church associated with death. In doing so, we proclaim… Read More
Practical Preparation – Details to Address: Your Will, Social Security, Veterans Affairs
All persons over 18 years of age should have a will. You should make a will as soon as possible because no one can plan for a sudden illness or… Read More
Three Sacred Moments
(5:11) – This video is a clear description of the three-part journey of Christian burial. It explains the importance of the Vigil, the Funeral Mass, and the Rite of Committal.… Read More
Why a Catholic Funeral Part One
(2:18) – With testimonies from priests and family members, this short video shows the importance of a Catholic funeral not only for the deceased but also for those left behind.… Read More
Why a Catholic Funeral Part Two
(1:38) – This is a short video that uses the testimony of loved ones to focus on the beauty and the healing powers of a funeral. It shows that the… Read More
Understanding Death Series – Pondering Death
(3:51) – How do humans, and specifically Catholics, think about death? What lies behind a fear of death? Should you bring children to funerals? Interviews with priests, monks, and laity… Read More