"The Learning Catholic" Series: Catholic Funerals 101 - Part 1

Catholic Funerals 101 - Part 1, by Fr. Kenneth Metz.
All Souls Catholic Parish, Sanford, FL
Fr. Kenneth Metz treats his listeners to deep talks about their beautiful faith, from which so much can be learned that is fascinating and eye-opening about Catholicism. Fr. Ken weaves together historical facts, Biblical writings, current thinking, colorful personalities, and individual stories to bring to light how our past informs our future.
Father Ken begins by sharing a little of the history of All Souls Cemetery, in Sanford, Florida, and introduces us to some of the specific terminology used for burials. Then Father Ken begins an in depth look at the Catholic perspective on burial practices and life after death. For example did you know that the Hebrew word for "human" is really translated as "breathing clay"? Did you also happen to know that today, in Orange and Seminole Counties, between 60-70% of burials are of cremated remains? Although cremation was once forbidden tor Catholics, the possibility of it was restored in the spirit of the second Vatican Council. Nevertheless, the cremated remains of a body must be treated with the same respect given to the human body from which they come.
If you want to learn more, call the Parish office and ask to speak with All Souls Parish Catechetical Leader, Ms. Holly Hooton, at 407-322-3795. You may find that All Souls has a program or Bible study for you, that will help guide your steps along your faith journey.

[@PuntaPacifica507]

Thank you for sharing. Thank you for your service , dedication and knowledge.

[@Christian_Girl120]

Thank you for sharing this Father Kenneth. This was very interesting and educational as well. A full burial costs anywhere between 12 to 20,000 dollars depending on what type of burial. That is the type of vault, casket, opening the grave costs, etc. This is why many choose cremation. However, I understand the reasons behind why the church does Catholic funerals the way it does and why they feel that a full burial is more ideal.

[@FrankPCarpi]

Our body goes back to the earth until the resurrection at the Rapture of the church, but as the apostle Paul says, to live is Christ and to die is gain. At death our souls enter into the presence of the Lord.
Next week on May 21st my Mom's cremated remains is going to be intered at saint Raymond's cemetery in the Bronx.