Planning the Catholic Funeral

Ever since the early days of the church, bereaved families and close friends have gathered together at the death of a Christian. Prayers and rituals bring comfort and consolation for those who are grieving. Planning the Catholic Funeral clearly and carefully takes the bereaved through the significant moments in the ritual for funerals by providing an overview of the funeral, as well as space to write down decisions while going through the planning process. This planning guide, written in accordance with the Order of Christian Funerals, is a valuable tool at the time of the funeral, whether the death was unexpected or planned for in advance. Planning the Catholic Funeral is an important tool for the pastoral staff, lectors, musicians, and those who assist grieving family and friends to effectively plan ministries that celebrate the death of a Christian in a meaningful and loving way. With this book, a difficult and often confusing time is transformed into a time of pastoral liturgical care for the bereaved. Planning the Catholic Funeral allows those who are grieving, as well as those who are assisting them, to appreciate the funeral as a journey taken with the parish community.