The planning of a Catholic funeral can be one of the most challenging things we will ever do; whether it is the death of a spouse, grandparent, sibling or parent. The decisions that must be made between family, the funeral home, the parish and the cemetery, all within a few days can be overwhelming. These decisions are compounded by the sadness and grief that weigh upon the family. For these reasons, this book, Planning a Catholic Funeral, by Father Kenneth Koehler, is a tremendous gift to the Christian community. He clearly leads the funeral planner through the planning process and offers not only real practical guidelines, but makes this time of planning easier and even prayerful. Rev. Kenneth Koehler Father Ken has been a clergyperson for over 25 years and a priest for nearly forty. He has served two Denver parishes, where the number of funerals per year has averaged 35-40. The first edition of Preparing a Catholic Funeral arose out of the experience of his own father's funeral; when it came time to plan, no one knew where/what his plans were. Since then, literally thousands of parishioners around the country have appreciated the opportunity to supply, in a quick form, the right information for the church and their families. Rev. Koehler currently serves as Pastor of St. Mark Catholic Church in Westminster, CO. As one deeply involved in funeral ministry, both on a diocesan and parish level, this planning aid is a wonderful resource. I encourage the clergy and faithful alike to avail themselves of this valuable resource. As the Order of Christian Funeral eloquently states, "Christians celebrate the funeral rites to offer worship, praise and thanksgiving to God for the gift of a life which has now been returned to God" OCF #5. This planning book helps in fulfilling the Church's vision for well-planned and celebrated funeral rites. -Deacon Charles Parker, Director of Liturgy, Archdiocese of Denver
