Dear Friends,
We spend so much of our energy preparing for what is temporary — our careers, finances, homes, and schedules — and yet how little time we spend preparing for eternity. Jesus often reminded His disciples, “Be ready, for you do not know the day or the hour.” (Matthew 25:13) Preparing for our own funeral is really about preparing our hearts to meet God. It invites us to reflect on the kind of life we are living now and the legacy of faith we will leave behind.
Just as a responsible person prepares a will or testament for loved ones, so too should a person of faith make spiritual and practical preparations for their own departure. Planning your funeral liturgy — choosing the readings, hymns, and prayers — is not about control or vanity. It is a final act of discipleship. It says, “Even in my death, I want to proclaim the Gospel.”
Just as Jesus prepared His disciples for His own passing — washing their feet, breaking bread, and leaving them words of peace — we too can prepare our loved ones for our own going forth. It is a profoundly loving. His final words in the Upper Room to his disciples gathered together for the last time were, “A new commandment I give to you, love one another as I have loved you.” Our final words and gestures can be filled with faith, peace, and love.
How to Prepare: A Christian Act of Faith and Hope
For many people, the thought of preparing for one’s own funeral can feel uncomfortable. Yet, for a person of faith, it is one of the most beautiful expressions of trust in God. By planning ahead, Catholics can ensure that their final wishes reflect both their personal faith and the teachings of the Church. Such preparation relieves loved ones of the burden of making difficult decisions during a time of grief. It is a final gift of peace and clarity — ensuring that your funeral becomes a true act of worship and thanksgiving.
