Devastation
This reflection discusses death by suicide. If you are struggling with thoughts of suicide, please reach out to someone you trust and seek immediate support. You do not have to carry this pain alone. If you are in a place of overwhelming pain, you may feel as though there is…
National Cremation Placement Day
On October 17, 2026, communities across the country will recognize the first National Cremation Placement Day. Observed annually on the third Saturday in October, this day will encourage families to consider the importance of providing cremated remains with a permanent and dignified resting place. As cremation has become more common,…
Blessed
I have spent a great deal of time thinking about the meaning of blessed and how the word is used in our everyday language. One definition of blessed is “holy, sacred, or divinely favored.” Within the Catholic faith, the word can carry several meanings, but I want to focus on…
Reflecting on a Summer of Meaning: My Internship with the CCA
Faith. Family. Compassion. Hope. Trust. These five values of the CCA are a large part of my who I am. That is alignment, and this passion has helped me to take pride in my work for such a meaningful organization. As the CCA’s Marketing Intern, I was tasked with a…
Celebration
When thinking about a celebration, I am certain that the first thing that comes to mind is one of life’s many joyful events: a wedding, a retirement, an anniversary, a birthday, the 250th anniversary of the United States, or any number of important events. Merriam-Websters’ defines it as “the act…
Properly Disposing of the American Flag
The act of disposing of an American Flag that has served its purpose has to be done in a respectful and dignified way. While there are many ways to do this, the Catholic Cemeteries Association retires these flags by collecting them in a burlap sack, burning them and burying the…
Losing A Mentor
In late March, I lost a mentor that had impacted my life in many ways. He was deeply rooted in his Catholic faith, always knew the right thing to say, and was consistently there for his family and friends. After months of prayer, his passing still makes me think back…
Nudge
Nudge, “to touch or gently push”. Each of us knows what it is like to feel that slight sensation gently moving us in a particular direction. Some call it a “gut” feeling. Others might call it intuition. I see it as God’s gentle guidance. God formed us for this world to live…
What Does a Catholic Cemetery Mean to a Young Adult?
When many people think of a cemetery, they often think of sadness, loneliness, or grief. While those emotions are certainly part of the experience, Catholic cemeteries are much more than places of mourning. They are sacred spaces where families gather to remember, pray, and stay connected to those they love.…
Faith in Song: “Remember Me” From Coco
Growing up, death was something that made me nervous, anxious, and scared. As a child, I never truly wrapped my head around the legacy that people leave behind or how deeply someone can continue to impact our lives even after they are gone. For years, I was reluctant to be in touch with…
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