CATHOLIC FUNERAL GUIDELINES

The National Conference of Catholic Bishops has issued the following guidelines for funerals:

*Following the ancient traditions of humankind and the Catholic community, the Church asks us to celebrate the funeral of those gone forth in a liturgy with their bodily remains present.  This shows proper and appropriate respect for the vessel indwelt by the Holy Spirit and used throughout their journey of faith her on Earth.  This is the body that will be raised up in glory by Our Lord at the end of time.  This funeral Liturgy usually takes place in the Church at the celebration of the Eucharist.  Following this celebration, the Church recommends the respectful internment or entombment of the body.

* However, the church also recognizes the desire of some to use cremation as the preferred method of disposition.  In view of this desire, the church recommends that cremation take place AFTER the funeral Liturgy.  Following the cremation, the ashes should be buried or entombed.

* If significant reason to depart from these guidelines exist, reasonable accommodations may be made.  Any modified arrangements should be discussed with a priest.  You can call the pastor with questions regarding actual funeral arrangements before the need actually arises.