Dear Friends in Christ,

As we approach November, the Month of the Souls, I am reminded of Rev. Ronald Rolheiser, O.M.I., a Catholic priest and theologian who writes an annual article about suicide for his weekly column.  In those columns, he reminds us that “We are made up of body and soul.  Either can snap.  We can die of cancer, high blood pressure, heart attacks, or even suicide.” If you ever have a chance, I encourage you to read it.

It is with this in mind, that I would like to follow his example.  I choose not to write about suicide at this time, but rather offer once again, the mind of the Church as it refers to Cremation.  I have recently been told that as much of 40% of our current burials now involve cremation.  Although tradition burial practices which reflect respect for the body are still the normal Catholic practice, cremation is allowed by the Catholic Church for justifiable reasons.  However, the final expression of our faith as Catholics is the sacred burial in a Catholic cemetery.  It affords an opportunity to rest among fellow believers, awaiting the resurrection to life everlasting in union with God.  Twice a year, on All Souls Day and Memorial  Day, Mass is offered for the repose of the souls of all the faithful departed buried in Mt. Carmel Cemetery.  read more...