When it comes to making a burial decision, the amount of options can be overwhelming. Not only are you expected to decide how you’d like to be buried, what type of service you prefer, and other personal arrangement preferences; but you also must decide where you want to buried. These are all topics you should discuss while preplanning your funeral and burial arrangements. (For more information about preplanning, please visit our previous blog post Preplanning: What is it?).  As a Catholic, it’s very important that you consider burial in a Catholic cemetery. There are differences between Catholic and non-Catholic cemeteries that you need to know before making your decision. Below are 3 things you should know about Catholic cemeteries that can help you make an educated decision on your final resting place.

1.Catholic cemeteries are BLESSED 

Unlike secular cemeteries, Catholic cemeteries are considered to be an extension of the Church itself and are therefore considered consecrated grounds. By being buried in a Catholic cemetery, you are assuring that your body or cremated remains will eternally rest on blessed land.

2. Catholic cemeteries are MERCIFUL  

As one of the Spiritual Works of Mercy, Catholic cemeteries offer prayers for the deceased members of the Catholic community. Catholic cemeteries also celebrate Mass on the grounds as a form of prayer and worship to offer intentions for the dearly departed.

3. Catholic cemeteries are FORGIVING  

It is the belief of the Catholic church that reconciliation and forgiveness can be achieved after death, providing all members of the Catholic family the opportunity to be buried on sacred ground.

To learn more about your local Catholic cemeteries and how you can start planning, please visit clecem.org or call 855-852-PLAN(7526).

Post written by Katie Karpinski