Funeral Music Suggestions

Funeral Wishes Information Sheet

Archdiocesan Teaching on Cremation

Now and at the hour of our death
A guide from the Roman Catholic Bishops of Wisconsin on End of Life Decisions.


The story is told of a wise old Italian Cardinal who, before his death, decreed that he wanted these words printed on his tombstone: "We weep because it is human...yet, we hope because it is Christian." This, indeed, is the paradox of death for the Christian - that we both bear the weight of loss and the hopeful message that death is not the last word for, as we pray: "You will not leave me for dead, nor lead your beloved astray" [Psalm 16].

While death is often sudden and unexpected, there are times when prolonged illness precedes death. In such cases, this time can be a graced opportunity for the dying person and his/her family to face the reality of impending death by talking about the funeral rituals. The staff of St. Francis de Sales is ready to meet with you to begin this process.

If such an opportunity does not present itself before your loved one dies, we hope that you will call on us right after death so that we can minister to you in your time of loss. Often the funeral home you choose will make the first contact to us. Along with the personnel of the funeral home, the clergy, staff, and parishioners of Saint Francis de Sales are ready to help you in whatever ways we can.

You can download the Funeral Readings Guide, Funeral Music Suggestions, as well as a Funeral Wishes Information Sheet. We hope that they will be of particular help to you. We have put this book together to acquaint you with the Catholic Order of Christian Funerals, as well as some of the ways we can minister to you and your family during the time of illness, death and grieving.

In the days, weeks and months that follow, we pledge to you our prayers, our support and our sympathy. May the God of healing and consolation find a special place in your heart at this time of loss and sadness.