Message from Bishop J. Peter Sartain

Dear Friends in Christ:

......During the Funeral Mass, we pray: “In him, who rose from the dead, our hope of resurrection dawned. The sadness of death gives way to the bright promise of immortality. Lord, for your faithful people life is changed, not ended. When the body of our earthly dwelling lies in death, we gain an everlasting dwelling place in heaven.”

......Our faith gives us hope in the Resurrection. Yet for many of us, the prospect of preparing for death and making funeral arrangements remains a difficult task to face. At the same time, we do not want to place burdens on our loved ones after we have gone.

......That is why I ask you to prayerfully consider participating in our Catholic Cemeteries Pre-Need Program. This Program provides the Catholic faithful an opportunity to make burial arrangement decisions far in advance of when they are needed. In that way, surviving family members will not be forced to contend with last- minute decisions while grieving. Involvement in this Catholic Cemeteries Program is another way of expressing your concern and love for your family.

......Please prayerfully evaluate and consider the options offered in this document. I hope you find it helpful.

......May you be filled with the hope, joy and peace of our Risen Lord!

Sincerely in Christ,

Most Reverend J. Peter Sartain
Bishop of Joliet

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