one of two — The Roman Catholic Funeral

By KATHLEEN MATUSZAK St. Joseph Funeral Home And Cemetery

The Roman Catholic Church has one of the greatest histories — in both length and achievement — of all the religions. It remains one of the largest and most influential of all throughout the world. Of all the religious bodies, the funeral service in the Catholic religion has the most variation due to local customs within dioceses and even parishes.

In the past, the sacrament of extreme unction (final anointing), or what is commonly called last rites, was administered when death was imminent. Now called the sacrament of anointing the sick, this sacrament may be administered upon the onset of serious illness, mental conditions, injury or old age.

There are generally no restrictions placed upon a funeral director when removing the body from the place of death to the funeral home; some religions have strict rules and customs surrounding this. I cannot speak for other funeral homes, but we will often say a prayer over the body and for the family prior to taking their loved one into our care.

A visitation with the body present, whether it be embalmed or in cremated form, may be held in the funeral home or in a church

Presented by: Steff Walker, Divisional Director of Business Development, Home Health & Hospice –Central Division ProMedica

Thursday, May 18 · 3:00pm-4:00pm facility if agreed upon by parish staff. Often a rosary, medal or holy card will be placed in the hands of the deceased, which may be left with the body or not after the service. The wake, or viewing, is intended to be dedicated to prayer for the deceased. Prayers may include the rosary, Divine Mercy chaplet, Office of the Dead, psalms or readings. Naturally, it is also a time for family and friends to gather and share remembrances and to console one another.

Understanding the healthcare system and the many options available can be extremely confusing. Changing health care needs impact more than just the patient; they affect family members and those who provide care, too. ProMedica will help you make sense of it by providing this learning opportunity to support you as a caregiver, equip you with powerful insight and provide you with courage.

Join us for this complimentary educational event. Space is limited. Please RSVP by May 16th by calling or visiting online.

St. Joseph Funeral Home and Cemetery may be reached at (574) 288-4685 or by visiting SJFH.net.

See the June issue for part two.