Cemetery Gazebo at Catholic Cemeteries, Archdiocese of Newark.
No one wants to think about their death or the death of a loved one any sooner than necessary. But making difficult decisions in advance about cemetery arrangements can ease the anxiety for a grieving family by lifting much of the burden in making final arrangements.
“When there is a death in the family and loved ones are experiencing a great deal of emotional pain and suffering, the worries of last-minute funeral arrangements and burial services should not become part of the grieving process,” said Andrew P. Schafer, executive director of the Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark. “When you take charge of making these plans beforehand, it makes it less difficult and certainly much kinder to your family.”
Pre-planning a memorial and pre-selecting a burial option is a growing trend in the United States. Increasingly, Baby Boomers are addressing this somewhat uncomfortable topic. In addition to sparing loved ones tough choices at an already-difficult time, advance planning allows families to carefully consider all memorial options in a thoughtful and unhurried manner. It also facilitates financial planning and provides an opportunity to personalize a lasting legacy.
“Your Catholic cemetery memorialization is an affirmation of faith for generations to come,” said Schafer. “It’s important for families to take time to learn about the many memorialization options and choose what’s best for them without urgency or stress.”
To assist families in learning more about advance planning, Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark is hosting fall open house events at cemeteries throughout New Jersey, including:
• St. Gertrude Cemetery & Mausoleum, 53 Inman Ave., Colonia, Oct. 31 – Nov. 1, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 888-444-2791
• Holy Name Cemetery & Mausoleum, 823 West Side Ave., Jersey City, Nov. 14 and 15, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 888-621- 0337
• Christ the King Cemetery, 980 Huron Road, Franklin Lakes, Nov. 21 and 22, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., 888-802-2933.
Memorial planning advisors will be available to answer questions and share information about preparing for a Catholic funeral. No obligation is expected and all are welcome. More information is available at www.Catholic-Journey.org.
