By Kathy Fanger

My dear Marianist friend , Father Steve Tutas , S . M ., recently celebrated his 91 st birthday . On the morning of his birthday , he emailed his many friends with his daily scripture reflections , including this added message : A Birthday is a Day for Giving Thanks ! I continue living one day at a time … without rushing , in thanksgiving and hope …

What a wonderful philosophy of life ! I especially took to heart his words , ‘ without rushing ’. Isn ’ t life so much more pleasant when we choose to intentionally move through our days , allowing restful , focused time for what ’ s most important ?

End-of-life planning can be just that – intentional , without rushing , giving it the thought and planning it requires and deserves . After all , we dedicate many hours of preparation for other major events of our lives : births , baptisms , First Communions , birthdays , Quinceañeras , graduations , weddings and anniversaries ! Doesn ’ t planning for our funeral deserve the same ?

Having one ’ s final resting place and

desire for Catholic funeral rites documented and in place is a gift of peace of mind to oneself and one ’ s family . You are essentially making a faith statement to your loved ones : “ Jesus promised he has prepared a place for me and will come to take me home to be with him . I believe so much in eternal life that I am going to prepare my funeral , even pay for it . It is my gift to you . I will write my wishes for my funeral services , perhaps even the scripture readings and songs I have come to love . I want you to gather together and give thanks to God for my life , for our love , and for all God ’ s blessings .” What a legacy you leave for your family !

Jesus , too , prepared for his death . He carefully planned the details of the Last Supper , arranging for the upper room , the washing of the feet of his disciples , the Seder meal , and his chosen parting words to his disciples . It was at this special , final meal that He instituted the Eucharist – the memorial in which he was to be forever remembered . “ Do this in memory of Me .” He also promised , “ I am with you always .” This was his legacy .

Catholic Cemeteries is here to assist you . Pre-planning takes less time than

you may think and it ’ s free . We listen to your wishes , discuss burial options and give you a tour of our beautiful , peaceful grounds . We offer zero-percent interest finance plans with only 10 percent down payment on the property . We even have savings opportunities . Begin the new year by adopting Father Steve Tutas ’ philosophy : Live one day at a time … without rushing … in thanksgiving for your life and God ’ s blessings , and in hope for a place at Jesus ’ banquet table in heaven .

Call us today for a free appointment and to receive our Legacy Planning Guide – a comprehensive step-by-step booklet to document important end-oflife information and your wishes . Call ( 650 ) 428-3730 or visit www . ccdsj . org .

Consolation of Grief Through Music and Prayer

January 19 , 6:30 – 8:30 p . m . Saint Elizabeth Parish – Parish Ministry Center , Saint Dominic & Saint Monica Rooms , 750 Sequoia Dr ., Milpitas . Presenter : Father Christopher Bennett

Experience a time of prayer and reflection with a variety of music . You

will be able to get in touch with the many feelings that accompany bereavement . Free .

End-of-Life Decisions A Catholic Perspective

February 10 , 10 a . m . – 12 p . m . Saint Francis of Assisi Parish – Fireside Room , 5111 San Felipe Rd ., San Jose . Presenter : Deacon Ray Gans

Choices at end-of-life present unique challenges , particularly within a complex and technologically advanced society . Physical death is perceived within modern society as the ultimate human tragedy . This presentation will explore end-of-life choices within the context of faith in Jesus and the moral tradition of the Church . Free .

For more information on these free workshops or to host a workshop in your parish , contact Kathy Fanger at ( 650 ) 428-3730 or cemeteryinfo @ dsj . org .