Losing someone you love is never easy.
Planning that person’s funeral, though, can bring some sense of closure and comfort to those left behind. Although the process can be overwhelming, these steps can ensure your loved one is given the send-off they deserve.
Step 1: Take time to grieve
This is a difficult and emotional time. That’s why you must permit yourself to feel the range of emotions you might be going through.
Step 2: Make arrangements with a funeral home
Once you feel ready, it’s time to make arrangements with a funeral home. There are several , so make sure you save yourself enough time to find the one you’re most comfortable with, and that best serves your needs.
Step 3: Decide on the type of service
Types of services range from traditional funeral, cremation, or a memorial service. Your funeral home can provide you with more information regarding the different types of services available and the costs associated with them.
Other considerations include the following:
- What type of service do you want?: A traditional Catholic funeral service includes a viewing, a funeral service or Mass, and a burial. Cremation is another option, and a memorial service or Mass can be held in place of, or in addition to, a traditional funeral.
- Personalizing the service: This includes everything from the casket or urn, choosing music or readings, and sometimes working with the funeral home or church to decide the order of events. Don’t be afraid to ask for suggestions.
- Make arrangements with compassion, and professionalism: The funeral home should support you through this difficult time, answer any questions, and help you make informed decisions. Do you need to submit an obituary? Who writes it? Those are the types of questions they should be able to answer and help you with.
Step 4: Notify family and friends
You may have already told certain loved ones about the death, but now it’s time to notify family and friends officially. You can do this through phone calls, emails, or a written notice – make sure your funeral home helps you create a guest list and provides assistance, if needed, in making the notifications.
Step 5: Take care of yourself!
Finally, it’s important to take care of yourself during this time. Just like the first step, this last step often goes ignored during this difficult and emotional time. Make sure you reach out to family, friends, or your parish for support. You can also seek help from a counselor or support group if needed.
To learn more about Holy Cross Cemetery & Funeral Center, contact them today.
