Preparing a Catholic Funeral

Book excerpt: In a revised and expanded edition, this simple pamphlet continues to guide us in dealing with death and arranging in advance for funerals. These booklets are often purchased in bulk by institutions to distribute to people of all ages to help them plan final arrangements, or to families of the deceased immediately after a death. The original edition was prompted by the death of the author's father: upon his passing and pending funeral, no one knew his plans or directives. Since then, scores of clergy, funeral directors, and parishioners have used this guide to address what needs to be done.