Ask the Bishops

What's Your Question?

Q: Can a function less formal than a funeral or memorial service be arranged ?

A: A Gathering of Friends is a less formal event. It allows family and friends to share their loss and treasured memories of the deceased. A Gathering of Friends may include light refreshments and can be held at any appropriate location, including an accommodating funeral home, a park, a restaurant, or the home of a family member or friend.

Q: Is a funeral or memorial service always held in a funeral home or place of worship ?

Q: May I make the necessary arrangements in advance ?

Q: Do clergy always officiate at a funeral service ?

Q: Is it appropriate to have viewing and not a service ?

Q: What purpose does a funeral serve ?

Q: What do funeral directors do?

Q: How soon after a death must an individual be buried?

Q: Will life insurance pay for funerals?

Q: Why are funerals so expensive?

Q: If I have already pre-arranged my funeral, can I transfer that pre-arrangement to a different funeral home?

Q: Who is the governing body for funeral homes and funeral directors?